SI vs NDT

Question 1

List 3 characteristics that define NDT.

Answer 1

1. Elicit automatic postural adjustments
2. Therapist controls direction and planning of session
3. Utilizes movable surface, including therapist’s body

Question 2

List 3 characteristics that define SI (sensory integration).

Answer 2

1. Enhance sensory processing to impact movement, learning and socio-emotional well being
2. Therapist controls the environment and guides child; treatment is child-centered
3. Utilizes equipment to provide sensory input

Question 3

List 4 impairments that are evident in children with CP.

Answer 3

1. Inadequate postural movement and abnormal movement patterns
2. Asymmetries
3. Inadequate weight bearing
4. Decreased trunk rotation

Question 4

List 7 areas to treat in children with CP and whether you would use SI, NDT or both.

Answer 4

1. Restricted or inaccurate input/FB (NDT/SI)
2. Decreased interaction with environment (SI)
3. Asymmetrical or prolonged pressure on particular parts (NDT/SI)
4. Poor alignment interferes with WS (NDT)
5. Decreased movement experiences (NDT/SI)
6. Asymmetrical position of head and eyes (NDT/SI)
7. Rotational movements (NDT/SI)

Question 5

List 6 impairments associated with children with Down’s syndrome.

Answer 5

1. Hypotonia
2. Hypermobility
3. Sensory overload
4. Impaired movements against gravity
5. Inefficient movement patterns
6. Impaired WB

Question 6

List 5 areas to treat in children with Down’s syndrome and whether you would use SI, NDT or both.

Answer 6

1. Facilitate co-contraction (i.e. bouncing) (NDT/SI)
2. Prevent use of hypermobility during transitional movements (NDT)
3. Normalize sensory input (SI)
4. Facilitate movements against gravity (NDT/SI)
5. Improve proximal control (SI)

Question 7

List 5 impairments associated with children with autism.

Answer 7

1. Poor sensory modulation
2. Poor postural control
3. Poor balance
4. Poor motor planning
5. Preference for sameness/reduced flexibility

Question 8

List 5 areas to treat in children with autism and whether you would use SI, NDT or both.

Answer 8

1. Normalize processing (SI)
2. Facilitation of co-activation (NDT/SI)
3. Facilitation of postural control (NDT)
4. Provide variety of activities to increase repertoire (SI/motor control)
5. Encourage production of adaptive responses (SI)