Autism and Increased Perception of Pain: Unraveling the Complex Connection
Autism, a condition that affects how people perceive and interact with the world, has long been associated with unique sensory experiences. Recent research has looked into the relationship between autism and pain perception, challenging long-held assumptions and shedding light on the everyday experiences of autistic individuals.
Sensory Modulation Dysfunction (SMD), Pain Perception,
And the myth of pain indifference
Sensory Modulation Dysfunction (SMD) refers to atypical responses to sensory stimuli. One specific type, Sensory Over-Responsiveness (SOR), amplifies reactions to non-painful stimuli, causing distress and reducing functional efficiency. Pain, defined as an “unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage,” intersects with SMD, thus autistic individuals may experience pain more intensely due to their heightened sensory responses.
For years, there was a prevailing belief that people with autism were somehow impervious to pain—that they didn’t experience it like others did. Recent studies reveal a different reality. Autistic individuals can experience pain at a higher intensity than the general population and show less adaptability to pain sensations. These findings challenge assumptions and demonstrate the need for uniquely tailored pain management strategies for the autistic population.
What can be done
Those with autism navigate a world where sensory stimuli can be overwhelming. Understanding how they experience pain is crucial for providing effective support and more research needs to be done to explore the relationship between pain and autism. Recognizing signs in one’s posture, gait, and functional biomechanics can be one way to determine some common sources of pain, even if the individual has difficulty expressing what exactly may be bothering them.
An experienced chiropractor is one type of healthcare provider that is highly trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal dysfunction, a major cause of pain across all demographics. Special considerations should be taken when working with an autistic population, such as creating sensory-friendly environments, considering an individual’s specific sensitivities, and adaptability in the approach to treatment itself. By promoting pain awareness to the individual, family, and any support staff, we can all hope to better recognize and treat many common sources of pain (and the mental distress that comes with it) to a vulnerable population, and at the same time enhance their quality of life.
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