Does it work?

The effectiveness of sensory integration therapy is controversial and there are very few well-designed studies upon which to base a clear assessment of whether or not it works ^{(1, 2, 10, 11)}. Approximately half of the reports in the scientific literature show some type of effectiveness with sensory integration therapy, and half show no benefits at all ⁽¹⁾. Some researchers suggest that sensory integration therapy would be more useful for younger children than for older children ⁽⁴⁾. It is also possible that it might work for some children and not others. Some experts suggest that sensory integration therapy be discontinued if effects are not apparent during a specified time frame or if the child has a negative reaction ⁽⁴⁾.

Successful sensory integration therapy has been able to decrease sensitivities to touch and other stimuli ^{(1, 12)}. The result is that the children are better able to play, learn, and interact with people and surroundings ^{(1, 12)}.