What is Stereotypic Movement Disorder?

There are ways to treat Stereotypic Movement Disorder:

• Behavior Modification: Implementing strategies like positive reinforcement, redirection, and providing alternative activities can help reduce or redirect the stereotypic movements.
• Sensory Integration Therapy: Engaging in sensory-based activities can help individuals find alternative ways to fulfill their sensory needs, potentially reducing the frequency of stereotypic movements.
• Medication: Sometimes, medication is prescribed to manage associated symptoms like anxiety or hyperactivity, which can contribute to repetitive movements.
• Occupational Therapy: Working with an OT, or occupational therapist, can help develop adaptive skills, address sensory needs, and explore techniques to manage and redirect repetitive movements.

The prognosis vary depending on the individual and the severity of the disorder. With early intervention and appropriate support,  individuals with Stereotypic Movement Disorder can experience vast improvements in their quality of life.

Goally’s visual schedule app and interactive social learning tools can provide valuable support for individuals with Stereotypic Movement Disorder! The visual schedule app can help create structure and predictability in daily routines, plus the ability to upload custom video for kids to model their movements after. The TV app has many videos that kids can use to mirror social interactions!