Sensory Disorder and Magnesium Deficiency

[compnet]

Epsom Salts, Magnesium Deficiency and Sensory Integration Disorder


"Years ago, an occupational therapist mentioned using Epsom Salts in the bath when my daughter was being evaluated for sensory integration disorder. Unfortunately, she didn't explain why so I thought it would just be calming. I didn't realize it would be treating a mineral deficiency and that the sensory issues she was having were a SYMPTOM of a chronic magnesium deficiency. Epson Salts contain magnesium sulfate and the magnesium is absorbed through the skin in a bath...."

http://whattofeedyourkids.blogspot.com/2008/09/epsom-salts-magnesium-deficiency-and.html

[benjimom]

I have read that a lot of peoplein the US are magnesium deficient, interesting.

[compnet]

I just did some googling on magnesium and the inner ear, and it is reported to play a big role in this area.  I also took at look at sensory receptors and there are some results when searched with electrolytes or minerals.  

In general, there isn't nearly as much medical research on nutrition for conditions, as there is on medicines; it isn't as lucrative.

There's a good article:
How Sensory Integration and Nutrition Interact by Kelly Dorfman, MS

[specialmom]

Well, people can be open to all kinds of things and if it can not hurt you, why not try it.  That is why we saw a nutrionist at a major university for guidance.  In our case, we discontinued seeing her and she agreed  as it had no effect.  Within that time period, we added and eliminated many things.  This was just our experience and every child and family is different.  

Occupational therapy is the standard of care for a child with sensory integration disorder and it works really really well.  A family can use the same strategies that are done in occupational therapy at home.  A family could certainly tie in some of the nutritional aspects you speak of as they do OT.  Maybe it will help and maybe it won't.

Sensory integration disorder has many different areas.  What specifically are you saying magnesium will help?  Can you tell me about the effects on the vestibular system and proprioceptive system with the use of magnesium?  

I'm a firm believer in a well balanced diet.  Anyway, thanks for the info.

[compnet]

I understand you didn't have success with diet, though I don't know all that you tried.  I hope people will be open to trying different things though.

Nutrition is important for the nervous system.  Magnesium in particular is involved with nerve function and muscular function.  Magnesium is very soothing and calming.  I have read of various deficiencies having symptoms of sensitivity to sounds, taste, touch, etc.

http://www.reith.ca/nutrition/nervous_system.html

[specialmom]

Hi compnet.  Sensory integration disorder is actually a developmental delay involving the nervous system and how the brain processes things.  And actually everyone has some kind of sensory discomforts---------  I prefer not to wear turtle necks because they bug me for example.  It becomes a disorder when a child or adult can not maintain themselves or function because of the issues.  Sensory issues are seen early on and many parents of a sensory child have an ah ha moment after the fact when some quirks they saw in their babies and young toddlers are explained later as fitting into the sensory issues of the child.

My son has sensory integration disorder.  Occupational therapy does a beautiful job of addressing the needs of a sensory child and I would highly recommend it.  Medication does not help sensory nor does diet through both my research and personal experience.  

Luck to all that parent kids with challenges.