Effects of sensory integration therapy in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND: Sensory integration therapy (SIT) has been widely applied to address difficulties in daily performance resulting from inefficient processing of sensory information. AIMS: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of SIT in children based on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Twenty-three RCTs out of 1406 articles were included. Meta-analyses were performed for proximal outcomes (motor skills, balance, visual construction, and sensory processing) and distal outcomes (daily functioning and individualized goals). OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: SIT produced significant improvements in motor skills (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.03-0.89). Furthermore, SIT enhanced daily functioning (SMD = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.16-1.08) and individualized goals (SMD = 1.71, 95% CI = 0.80-2.62). Balance, visual construction, and sensory processing did not demonstrate statistically significant effects. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: SIT is an effective intervention for improving motor functions and for supporting better performance and participation in everyday occupations among children.