Vestibular Dysfunction

Auditory dysfunction also often occurs with a vestibular disorder, due to both being perceived within the system of the ear.

Vestibular stimulation comes from tiny hair cells in the inner ear registering every change in head position as related to balance and movement. You may find that some children with this type of dysfunction either passionately love or hate amusement park rides. The symptoms may seem similar to signs-symptoms of autism because it can often cause a delay in toddler speech development.

It’s amazing that something so small can detect even the slightest bit of movement we make. In fact, all sensations are interpreted with reference to the vestibular system.

The nervous system depends on a properly working vestibular system to process sensory input from all of our senses. If there is vestibular dysfunction, then all other aspects of the nervous system will fail to function accurately as well.

Signs of vestibular dysfunction include sensory seeking behavior, and/or hyper/hypo sensitivity to movement..

A. Vestibular Hypersensitivity to Movement⁽¹⁾:

• Dysfunction causes resistance to moving playground equipment, such as swings, slides or merry-go-rounds
• Desires stationary tasks and moves slowly and cautiously
• Fear of heights and falling
• Easily lose balance or referred to as a “klutz”
• Avoidance of stairs, elevators, and escalators
• Demand physical support from an adult

• Unaware of being moved
• Lack of motivation to actively move
• Swing for long periods of time without getting dizzy
• Unaware of sensation of falling and failing to protect him/herself by extending hands or feet to catch him/herself

• Loves amusement park rides
• Described as hyperactive – always running, jumping, and hopping
• Engages in rocking or rhythmic movements
• Trouble sitting still or staying seated
• May vigorously shake head or rock rhythmically
• Crave intense movement including jumping, upside-down positions
• Enjoy swinging very high
• Loves seesaws, teeter totters or trampolines more than other children
• Can’t seem to sit still
• Likes spinning in circles

• Limp or floppy body
• Often “W sits” when on the floor
• May have skipped crawling as an infant
• Weak gross motor and fine motor skills
• May seem to ambidextrous, by often switching hand use
• Struggles to mimic dance moves and exercises

SPD Treatment

Because our son primarily had sensory seeking vestibular dysfunction his treatment has included therapeutic listening with a sensory diet and the wilbarger brushing protocol. As a result we have noticed immense improvements in his language, ability to transition to another activity, and sit still to focus on a task.

Additional Recommended Pages:

• Auditory Processing Disorder
• Proprioceptive Dysfunction
• Tactile Dysfunction
• Tactile Defensiveness with hypersensitivity to tactile stimuli
• Oral Defensiveness
• Olfactory Dysfunction

References