Deep pressure therapy

Deep Pressure Therapy is a therapeutic approach used to help individuals with sensory processing disorders, including autism. It involves applying firm, controlled pressure to the body, which can have calming and organizing effects on the nervous system. This pressure can be provided through various techniques, including massage, weighted blankets, or body compression. Deep pressure is believed to help regulate the sensory nervous system by providing proprioceptive input, which can be soothing and grounding.

The therapy is thought to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. It can be applied in four different ways. 1) Blankets filled with materials like beads or pellets providing consistent, even pressure across the body used during sleep or rest periods. 2) Compression vests that apply gentle, even pressure to the torso. They can be worn during daily activities. 3) Massage and deep pressure touch, are manual techniques such as massage, squeezing, or firm touch that can be used to provide deep pressure, and 4) Propioceptive activities, like pushing against resistance, climbing, or jumping. The effectiveness of deep pressure therapy can vary widely among individuals. Some may find it highly beneficial, while others may not experience significant improvements or even findt it aversive. There is very limited evidence about its effectiveness and it is a not evidence base intervention. While there are many anecdotal reports and some studies supporting deep pressure therapy, more rigorous, large-scale research is needed to fully validate its efficacy and understand its mechanisms.