Christian's therapy sessions

Update on Christian's Therapy

Christian has a "feeding disorder". You can read about the differences between a feeding disorder and picky eating here. He goes to therapy once a week at Sports Plus Rehab center here in Dyersburg. It is important to understand that his feeding disorder is directly connected to his sensory issues. The reason he isn't accepting of foods is because of the different textures. What we are doing in therapy is teaching him to accept different textures using all of his senses. We first have him just accept seeing the food. After that, he can try touching the food. Eventually he will learn to smell the food and lick the food which eventually leads to eating the food. When he started he would only eat tortilla chips, granola bars, and cereal. Now he eats all of that plus fries, grapes, apples, yogurt, and raisins. He has only been in therapy for 4 months. I think he is making GREAT progress!

So, what's new?

Christian has jittery hands. When he tries to write, color, button, zip, tie, or anything else that requires precision, his hands shake. They now think that he poor hand-eye-coordination as well as poor hand control.  He should be able to draw simple shapes by now, but he can not. They have written an order for him to start  occupational therapy and also have sent a request for him to be evaluated by a neurologist at Lebonheur Children's Medical Center to rule out any neurological issues. While he is there he will also be evaluated by the physical therapist there. We will keep everyone updated with whatever happens and how he progresses.