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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Can anyone point me to any randomized, controlled, peer-reviewed studies showing that occupational therapy is effective in treating sensory processing problems or fine motor delays in preschoolers? I work in research but can't seem to find these. Most of the studies I've located do not have research designs that enable observers to distinguish the effects of treatment from changes that would have occurred in children regardless as they matured. Are methodologically rigorous studies out there?

If there aren't, and you decided to go ahead and spend the money on OT, how did you make that decision? It seems like a ton of money to spend without being more sure about efficacy, but maybe worth doing because OT at least isn't harmful, and might help even if it hasn't been studied properly? TIA. [/quote]

Well, most intervention research is crappy. So often the choice comes down to doing nothing or relying on the crappy research that is available.

We did OT for sensory sensitivities, motor planning, fine motor development, and picky eating. Our insurance paid for part of it. I liked our OT because she was very focused on teaching me what she was doing and giving us ideas for home and school. I don't think one hour of OT a week would have accomplished anything, but she helped me understand my child's sensitivities and needs better, and helped us develop better routines for our home. My kid enjoyed it at an age where few activities appealed to him. The OT was also just a decent, caring person who listened to me and gave me advice, and also advocated for changes for my child in school.

How much of my kid's progress is due to OT or due to development that would have occurred anyway? I have no idea. But it was worth it to me.

Also, I went through two other OTs before I found this one. The first was two serious and bossy, and the second was very passive. The right fit is important.[/quote]

Agree with this.  Wish there was more research.  I think OT helped with my DC's fine motor skills, but marginally since he only got 1/2 hour week.  I think the most helpful part was just the evaluation, the recognition that he was delayed in this area, and us at home gently encouraging him to do more to strengthen his hands and practice those skills (playdoh, beading, writing, drawing, squeezy toy activities).

The "sensory diet" that the OT tried did nothing.  Whatever it was that it was trying to fix, he grew out of it.  [/quote]

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