What is Sensory Integration Dysfunction?

Simply put, sensory integrative dysfunction is

difficulty taking in, sorting out and/or connecting  

information from the surrounding world.

Each of our sensory systems has receptors, which communicate information to the brain. The senses of taste, smell, sight, hearing, and touch are commonly recognized. Less well known are the vestibular and proprioceptive systems. The vestibular system receptor organ is in the inner ear and gives us our sense of balance. Proprioceptive organs are located in the muscles and joints and give us sensory information about how our bodies are moving. Together, the touch, vestibular and proprioceptive systems tells us all about our bodies. Other senses tell us about what is happening outside of our bodies.

These basic senses blend in such a way to enable us to function in daily life. It is this complex blending that is called sensory integration. For example, vision integrates with proprioception and touch making it possible to have eye/hand coordination to catch a ball. Proper organization of the senses is necessary for the brain to interpret a situation correctly and make an appropriate response.