Sensory Processing Disorder
Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team
Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board
Last updated: June 2026
Key Takeaways
- Postural Disorder is a subtype of Sensory-Based Motor Disorder (SBMD) in which a child struggles to maintain proper body posture because of difficulty processing vestibular and proprioceptive input, affecting balance, stability, and core strength.
- Common signs in children include slouching or leaning on furniture, fatigue during seated tasks, poor balance and coordination, difficulty staying upright, and delays in crawling, walking, or other gross motor milestones.
- Postural Disorder is neurologically rooted in how the brain processes sensory input; it is not a behavioral issue or laziness.
- Without early intervention, postural challenges can lead to secondary issues such as poor handwriting, behavioral resistance, and low self-esteem.
- Occupational therapy with a sensory integration focus is the gold standard treatment, supported by core strengthening, balance and coordination training, and environmental modifications.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Low muscle tone (hypotonia) | Appears floppy, tires easily during physical activities |
| Poor endurance | Can't sit upright for for long; fidgets or slouches constantly |
| Clumsiness or frequent falls | Trouble with balance and spatial orientation |
| Weak core strength | Difficultly maintaining posture without external support |
| Avoids physical activity | May resist playground play or gym class due to body fatigue |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is postural disorder in children?
Postural Disorder is a subtype of Sensory-Based Motor Disorder in which a child has difficulty stabilizing the body for smooth movement and endurance, due to challenges processing vestibular and proprioceptive input. It can affect balance, stability, and core strength, leading to delayed motor skills.
What are the signs my child might have postural disorder?
Look for slouching or leaning on furniture, fatigue during seated tasks, poor balance and coordination, difficulty maintaining an upright position, and delays in crawling, walking, or other gross motor milestones.
Is my child's poor posture just laziness or behavior?
No. Postural Disorder is neurologically rooted in how the brain processes sensory input. It is not a behavioral issue or laziness.
Who can diagnose postural disorder, and how?
Diagnosis typically involves a pediatric occupational therapist trained in sensory integration. The evaluation may include clinical observation, standardized assessments like the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT), and parent and teacher questionnaires.
At what age is postural disorder usually diagnosed?
Symptoms may appear as early as toddlerhood, but a formal diagnosis often occurs between ages 3 and 7, once motor delays become more apparent.
Can postural disorder affect my child's performance at school?
Yes. Poor posture can reduce focus, cause fatigue, and hinder handwriting or classroom participation, all of which can affect academic performance.
