Behavioral Treatment

M.M. was referred to Monique by his occupational therapist. M.M. was a five-year-old boy whose behavioral issues were so extreme that he was unable to attend school. He had been diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder and multiple food allergies.

Issues

His O.T. observed that he had many sensory issues: he hated to be touched, could not tolerate loud noises, became car sick almost immediately, did not like to have his feet off the ground, and was visually quite distractible. His balance and strength were far below what they should have been for his age level, and although he was very bright, he scored far below the norms on standardized tests evaluating visual motor and cognitive perceptual development.

He was often violent and could not play with his siblings and peers without fighting. He had harmed his baby sister several times. His sleep patterns were erratic, and he had a hard time transitioning between activities. Frequently throwing tantrums when asked to end one activity in order to begin another, he required constant structure and limit-setting.

A Need for Care

During his first visit he was evaluated and treated for lesions in the leg and pelvis. Initially, he was seen once every three weeks. As his symptoms were alleviated and the lesions decreased, the treatments were spaced further apart. Within a few months, he was learning to read and write, could walk on a balance beam, throw a ball, play age-appropriate games, and take turns. His oppositional and violent behaviors had decreased dramatically.

The next school year, he was placed in a regular classroom without incident. He continues to receive treatments every two months to support his development and is functioning within the school system. M.M.'s case is an example of why it is crucial to be able to evaluate the entire body in order to make effective, lasting changes.

Based on his mother's report of her pregnancy and M.M.'s birth, and from the occupational therapist's observations of his sensor and behavioral issues, Monique could have assumed that the dominant lesions would be found in his skull. On palpation, however, the problem areas were found in M.M.'s leg and pelvis, and he responded to treatment quickly.