Sensory Processing Disorders

Sensory processing difficulties — over-sensitivity or under-sensitivity to touch, sound, light, or movement — have a neurological basis that chiropractic care can address by normalizing spinal and craniosacral input to the brain.

What Is Sensory Processing Disorders?

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving and responding appropriately to sensory input from the environment. Children and adults with SPD may be hypersensitive (over-responding) or hyposensitive (under-responding) to various sensory stimuli, significantly affecting daily functioning, behavior, and social interaction. The brainstem plays a central role in sensory modulation, filtering the enormous amount of sensory input the body receives and prioritizing what reaches conscious attention. Upper cervical subluxations and craniosacral restrictions that impair brainstem function disrupt this filtering process, potentially contributing to sensory dysregulation. Optimizing brainstem function through gentle chiropractic care can improve sensory integration.

Common Symptoms

Overreaction to touch, sound, light, or movement
Meltdowns triggered by clothing textures or unexpected touch
Difficulty in noisy or visually busy environments
Sensory-seeking behavior — craving movement, deep pressure, or specific textures
Poor balance, coordination, or motor planning
Social difficulties related to sensory overwhelm

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

Brainstem dysregulation from upper cervical subluxation
Craniosacral restriction affecting sensory processing pathways
Autism spectrum disorder (common comorbidity)
Birth trauma or prematurity
Developmental differences in sensory pathway maturation
Chronic stress sensitizing the nervous system

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for Sensory Processing Disorders

For children with sensory processing challenges, Dr. Foss uses an extremely gentle, developmentally appropriate approach. Upper cervical and craniosacral corrections improve brainstem function and normalize the sensory gating mechanisms that filter incoming signals. SOT Category II protocols address the sacroiliac and pelvic proprioceptive input that contributes to postural and vestibular sensory integration. Many families report improved sensory tolerance, better sleep, and easier daily routines following consistent chiropractic care. Chiropractic care is best integrated with occupational therapy sensory integration protocols for comprehensive benefit.

At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.

We are insurance friendly with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from Sensory Processing Disorders?

Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.

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