Underactive....

Underactive is NOT a word that I ever thought I would use when talking about my Dylan. :-)  Nope!

Several weeks ago I had asked Dylan's OT to take a look at his vestibular function.  I had been seeing some things that made me wonder if he had something a little off with his vestibular system.  Both Kira and  Eva have an overactive vestibular system.

Children with overactive vestibular systems prefer slow movement, avoid risk-taking and avoid activities that require good balance and fast movement. They are fearful of falling, elevators, going up and down stairs and being tipped upside down.

I was pretty convinced that Dylan wasn't dealing with an overactive vestibular system but I was feeling pretty sure that he was dealing with an underactive vestibular system. (of course, right??)

These children enjoy fast spinning and swinging. They enjoy jumping, partake in dangerous activity and move while sitting.

Movements suggested for these children help their brains organize and process information more effectively and efficiently by using a series of physical activities to activate the vestibular system.
This prevents falling, keeps body parts properly aligned, and contributes to coordinated movement.

After his OT did some testing with him, she said that he definitely had signs of an underactive system.  I really did laugh when she told me.  I already know a lot about the therapy for overactive systems from the girls but sure why not....let's look at the other side now! :-)

Dylan LOVES spinning but he has a pretty big reaction to it too.  He gets pretty dizzy quickly but even with that feeling he wants more.  So we are doing some spinning therapy with Dylan and unlike the girls, he LOVES it.  It's tricky because we have to watch him pretty close while we are doing it and we have to be the ones to stop because he'll just keep going.

The Vestibular system is located in the inner ear. It responds to movement and gravity and is therefore involved with our sense of balance, coordination and eye movements. Therapy can include hanging upside down, rocking chairs, swings, spinning, rolling, somersaulting, cartwheels and dancing. All these activities involve the head moving in different ways that stimulate the vestibular system. The therapist will observe the child carefully to be sure the movement is not over stimulating.

Back and forth movement is typically less stimulating than side-to-side movement. The most stimulating movement tends to be rotational (spinning) and should be used carefully by the therapist. Ideally therapy will provide a variety of these movements. A rocking motion will usually calm a child while vigorous motions like spinning will stimulate them. Merry-go-rounds, being tossed on to cushions or jumping trampolines can be favorite activities with some children.

(More info here)

So another adventure for us but the good news is that we were able to borrow a spinning board from his OT and all 3 kiddos take turns doing it!