A Pilot Study Investigating the Methodology for Studying the Effectiveness of Intervention for Toddlers with Vestibular Over Responsivity

Sensory over-responsivity in the vestibular domain (aka gravitational insecurity) has been frequently identified in the literature. However, little has been written about the effectiveness of interventions, especially in toddlers with these idiopathic challenges (e.g. without a diagnosis of autism). The objective of this pilot study was to test the feasibility of the methodology and sensitivity of outcome measures for treatment based on the principles of Ayres Sensory Integration and the STAR Frame of Reference for toddlers with vestibular over - responsivity. A single subject design was attempted. Three toddlers with vestibular over responsivity received intervention 1-2 time per week for 15 weeks. Data were collected on a clinic outcome measure (e.g. time on a swing) and a home outcome measure (e.g. protests during diapering). However, baseline data could not be lengthened or staggered to meet the criteria for a multiple baseline study. Preliminary support is provided for the procedures, coding, and feasibility of including a clinic and a home outcome. Data analysis procedures consistent with single subject designs were used to evaluate sensitivity of the measures through an examination of changes in mean level, trend, and variability. Findings suggest this methodology and these outcome measures may be useful in future research; changes were noted in duration of play on a piece of suspended equipment and a reduction in protests during diapering activities at home following an early treatment of toddlers with vestibular over - responsivity. Lessons learned from this study can inform future study of intervention effectiveness for this population.