When someone struggles with how they process touch—either avoiding it or craving it too much—it can affect their entire day. From getting dressed to concentrating in school, these sensory challenges can lead to frustration and emotional stress. This is where touch therapy comes in.
Touch therapy, also called therapeutic touch or tactile stimulation, involves structured physical contact designed to calm the nervous system and improve sensory processing. But does it really work? And who benefits from it most?
Let’s explore how touch therapy might help children and adults with sensory processing disorders (SPD) and what to know before trying it.
What Is Touch Therapy?
Touch therapy is a hands-on method used by trained professionals or caregivers to provide safe, intentional physical input. It can include techniques like
- Gentle massage
- Brushing (Wilbarger Protocol)
- Deep pressure compression
- Hand-over-hand guidance
- Skin-to-skin contact for bonding
While these practices vary, they share one goal: helping the body and brain respond more appropriately to touch.
Many occupational therapists include touch therapy in sensory integration treatment plans, especially for people who are either overly sensitive (tactile defensiveness) or under-responsive to touch.
Why Touch Therapy Is Used for Sensory Disorders
Touch is one of our earliest senses to develop. It affects how we feel secure, connect with others, and manage stress. For individuals with SPD, the tactile system may be either under- or over-responsive, leading to behaviors like
- Avoiding certain textures (clothes, food, or hugs)
- Meltdowns during grooming (haircuts, teeth brushing)
- Seeking out rough play or constant contact
- Difficulty focusing or calming down
Touch therapy can help retrain the nervous system by providing structured and predictable touch experiences, reducing the fear or craving around physical contact.
Types of Touch Therapies for Sensory Disorders
There’s no one-size-fits-all method, but the following approaches are commonly used with children and adults who have sensory processing difficulties.
1. Deep Pressure Stimulation
This involves applying firm but gentle pressure to the body. Weighted blankets, compression vests, and tight hugs are great examples.
Deep pressure is calming. It helps regulate the nervous system by releasing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which reduce anxiety and improve mood.
2. Therapeutic Brushing (Wilbarger Protocol)
This structured touch therapy technique uses a soft-bristled surgical brush to stroke the arms, legs, and back in a specific sequence. It’s followed by joint compressions.
Used under professional guidance, this technique can decrease tactile defensiveness and improve tolerance to everyday touch.
3. Massage and Gentle Tactile Play
Massage promotes relaxation and sensory awareness. Simple routines—like rubbing lotion onto the skin or using textured rollers—can help kids become more comfortable with different sensations.
Incorporating toys like sensory balls, brushes, or fabrics also builds tactile tolerance during play.
Can Massage Really Help With Sensory Disorders?
Research on the use of touches is still growing, but many families and therapists report positive results. Benefits may include:
- Reduced tactile defensiveness
- Improved attention and emotional regulation
- Better sleep and routines
- Greater body awareness
- Stronger parent-child connection
However, touch therapy isn’t a cure. It works best as part of a larger sensory integration plan led by an occupational therapist. Also, not every child or adult responds the same way, so personalization is key.
Safety Tips
Before starting any touch therapy program, keep these points in mind:
- Always get guidance from an OT, especially for brushing protocols.
- Watch your child’s reactions closely—respect their comfort level.
- Never force touch—go slowly and build trust over time.
- Choose a calm setting where the person feels safe and in control.
When done gently and consistently, touch therapy can become a soothing part of your daily routine.
Simple Ideas to Try At Home
While professional therapy is important, many touch therapy practices can be used at home to support regulation. Here are a few easy ideas:
- Start the day with a “hug sandwich” or weighted lap pad during breakfast
- Let your child play with putty, kinetic sand, or textured balls
- Use a soft body brush during bath time to desensitize skin
- Offer lotion massage during bedtime for bonding and calming
These moments help create positive touch experiences and strengthen sensory resilience.
Final Thoughts
Touch can be healing, empowering, and essential—especially for those with sensory challenges. Touch therapy offers a gentle, low-cost way to support kids and adults who struggle with tactile processing.
While it’s not a magic fix, it is a helpful tool when used consistently and thoughtfully. Combined with other strategies, touch therapy can ease anxiety, increase focus, and improve daily routines in meaningful ways.