Modern neuroscience has revealed how sensory processing disorder affects the brain's structure, chemistry, and function — knowledge that's transforming treatment approaches.
The Brain Regions Involved in Sensory Processing Disorder
Key brain areas implicated in sensory processing disorder include:
- Amygdala: The brain's threat-detection center becomes hyperactive in sensory processing disorder, triggering excessive fear and stress responses
- Prefrontal Cortex: Responsible for rational thinking and emotional regulation — its function is often impaired by sensory processing disorder
- Hippocampus: Memory and context processing; chronic sensory processing disorder can affect its volume and function
- HPA Axis: The stress hormone system that, when dysregulated, drives many physical symptoms of sensory processing disorder
Neurochemistry of Sensory Processing Disorder
Sensory Processing Disorder involves imbalances or dysregulation of key neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA — all targets of current treatments.
How Treatment Changes the Brain
Both therapy and medication produce measurable changes in brain function in sensory processing disorder. CBT, for example, has been shown to normalize amygdala reactivity.
Neuroplasticity and Sensory Processing Disorder
The brain retains its ability to change throughout life. This neuroplasticity means that with appropriate treatment and practice, the neural patterns underlying sensory processing disorder can genuinely change.