Sensory Integration Disorders After COVID

Insights from Occupational Therapist Amy Mooney

In the latest episode of Long Covid, MD, I had the privilege of speaking with occupational therapist Amy Mooney about sensory integration and how it applies to those of us living with long COVID. I learned about sensory integration and sensory processing disorders only after I fell ill with long COVID. People affected by autism spectrum disorders or attention deficit disorders may already be familiar with the topic, because it is both a source of discomfort in these conditions and a target for treatment.

Like many people with long COVID, I did not always have words to describe how I felt. My body was suddenly sensitive to external triggers - noise, light, touch - that were once unnoticeable, and this was a dramatic change from my baseline. As an anesthesiologist, I specialize in performing very focused work in environments that are often crowded, tense and loud. I could follow several conversations, track vital signs, and perform an invasive procedure on a patient all at the same time. Now, I couldn’t walk and chew gum. What was going on? I learned that I was experiencing was a change in my ability to process and integrate inputs.

People with sensory processing disorders often benefit from occupational therapy, and Amy Mooney is not only experienced in Sensory Integration Therapy (SI), she also has a special interest in applying the techniques to patients with long COVID. I asked her to share her insights and provide us with practical strategies to navigate these challenges. Listen to our full conversation on Long Covid, MD.

What is Sensory Integration?

Amy explained that sensory integration refers to how our body processes input from our environment through our senses. For most people, this happens seamlessly. However, for those with sensory processing difficulties, like many with long COVID, this system can become dysregulated. Sounds may seem unbearably loud, lights may appear painfully bright, and even routine activities like showering can become exhausting.

She broke down sensory processing into three key areas:

• Input - The way the body receives sensory information, like sound, light, or touch.

• Processing - How the brain interprets this information.

• Output - The body’s response, whether it's a physical action or an emotional reaction.

When any part of this system is compromised, it can lead to sensory overload, often described by Long COVID patients as overwhelming, painful, and exhausting.

Why Sensory Overload Happens in Long COVID

We don’t have the full answer, but neuroinflammation may be a key factor. The nervous system’s heightened sensitivity means that simple sensory input can become overwhelming. On top of that, people with long COVID often experience reduced energy reserves, making it harder to regulate these responses.

Amy highlighted how even small tasks like holding a conversation in a noisy environment can become monumental. With so much of the brain’s energy diverted to coping with internal inflammation and fatigue, the ability to filter out unnecessary stimuli becomes impaired.

Practical Strategies to Manage Sensory Overload

Amy shared actionable tips to reduce sensory stress, especially for those with Long COVID.

• Modify Your Environment:

  • Dim lighting by using lamps instead of overhead lights.

  • Minimize background noise with noise-canceling headphones.

  • Choose neutral, less stimulating colors in your living space.

  • Reduce visual clutter to create a calming environment.

• Adjust Daily Activities:

  • Bathing, for example, can be particularly taxing. Modifying your approach might help.

  • Consider taking showers in dim lighting and use a handheld showerhead for greater control.

  • Adjust water temperature to a comfortable, moderate level.

  • Turn off loud fans or avoid using additional electronic devices.

• Use Sensory Tools:

  • Weighted blankets provide deep pressure input that can calm the nervous system.

  • Soft textures and compression garments may offer comfort.

  • Sensory objects, like vibrating pillows or fidget tools, can provide grounding.

• Listen to Your Body:

  • Pay attention to subtle signs of overstimulation, like dizziness or irritability.

  • Give yourself permission to rest before symptoms escalate.

  • Use calming techniques like deep breathing or applying cold compresses.

Advocating for the Right Support

Amy also addressed the challenges of finding appropriate care. Since sensory processing issues often lack a dedicated diagnosis, she recommended seeking an occupational therapist experienced in sensory integration. She suggested the following steps to get started:

• Request a Referral: Ask your primary care provider for a referral to an occupational therapist (OT) who specializes in sensory processing.

• Communicate Your Needs: Explain your symptoms clearly and describe how they affect your daily life.

• Vet Your Therapist: Choose an OT who understands the unique needs of people with Long COVID. Amy emphasized that the best OTs will listen, adapt treatment plans to avoid overstimulation, and respect your pace of recovery.

Restorative Movement and Sensory Regulation

Interestingly, Amy also recommended gentle movement as a form of sensory regulation. For those too fatigued to engage in traditional movement, passive movement techniques, like rocking or using weighted blankets, can provide the sensory input your nervous system craves without draining your energy.

She encouraged listeners to experiment with different strategies, acknowledging that what works one day might not work the next. Flexibility and self-compassion are key.

Tune in for More

This conversation with Amy was a reminder that understanding your body is key to navigating long COVID. Finding words and descriptors for my symptoms is itself empowering. Once we can describe our sensations and needs, interventions become more accessible. Whether it’s adjusting your environment, working with a therapist, or simply giving yourself grace, these strategies can make a meaningful difference.

To hear the full conversation and gather even more practical advice, listen to the episode on Long Covid, MD. Let me know in the comments if this resonates with you, and what sensory strategies have worked for you.