Fidgets & Focus: the Relationship Between OT and ADHD

    Have you ever noticed yourself biting your nails or the end of a pencil when you feel nervous? Or have you ever noticed yourself tapping your foot and wonder how long you've been doing so? Truth be told, we all participate in compensatory stimulations. These actions may help us focus, mask large emotions, or they may be simple habits we perform automatically. Nevertheless, these actions are completely normal. They become diagnosable once they interfere with our ability to perform necessary functions. 

    For many people diagnosed with a hyperactivity disorder, fidgeting may be caused by an underlying sensory disorder. Individuals with these diagnoses are faced with large emotions and a wide-variety of stimulations on a daily basis. As a spectator, one may view these behaviors as "acting out." In a podcast titled "Can Occupational Therapy Help With ADHD," Stephanie Lancaster compared dealing with stressors to an active car engine. If the engine receives too much input, it runs rough and fast. On the other hand, an engine with too little input doesn't move the car effectively. In a similar manner, our bodies need stimulation, but we need just the right amount. As an OT practitioner, our job is to help clients find their levels of "just right."

    The DUNN assessment is an excellent tool for determining how much sensory input a person needs. This assessment combines observations from a child's teachers and parents, in order to help the child perform best in various environments. In addition to this assessment, there are various forms of intervention an OT may prescribe someone. One example mentioned in the podcast is to incorporate 2-3min of physical activity every couple of hours. These short bouts of exercise are often effective for increasing the focus and attention span of hyperactive students. Pop-its, putty and other fidget tools may also be effective in the classroom setting. However, it is also important to note these products may be more distracting than beneficial. 

    In conclusion, it is important to note that hyperactivity disorders and sensory disorders often overlap. It is also worth mentioning that small changes in a child's schedule can make a great difference in their ability to learn and focus!