Systematic review and meta-analysis of sensory integration therapy for children shows mixed motor and functional outcomes

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Research in developmental disabilities Published May 3, 2026 Medically reviewed May 8, 2026 Study authors: Park Seong-Hi, Kim Eun Young PubMed ↗ DOI ↗ By Dr. Sofia Müller, MD · Lifespan & Whole-Person Care

Key Takeaway

Consider SIT for improving motor functions and daily functioning in children based on mixed evidence.

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the efficacy of sensory integration therapy (SIT) for children. The analysis pooled data from twenty-three randomized controlled trials to assess impacts on motor skills, balance, visual construction, sensory processing, daily functioning, and individualized goals. Follow-up duration was not reported for the included studies.

The meta-analysis reported significant improvements in motor skills with a standardized mean difference of 0.46 and a 95% CI of 0.03-0.89. Daily functioning also showed enhanced performance with an SMD of 0.62 and a 95% CI of 0.16-1.08. Improvements in individualized goals were noted with an SMD of 1.71 and a 95% CI of 0.80-2.62.

In contrast, the analysis found that SIT did not demonstrate statistically significant effects for balance, visual construction, or sensory processing. No effect sizes were reported for these outcomes. Safety data, including adverse events, serious adverse events, and discontinuations, were not reported in the source data.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis

EvidenceLevel 1

PublishedMay 2026

PMID41935430

View Original Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Sensory integration therapy (SIT) has been widely applied to address difficulties in daily performance resulting from inefficient processing of sensory information. AIMS: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of SIT in children based on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Twenty-three RCTs out of 1406 articles were included. Meta-analyses were performed for proximal outcomes (motor skills, balance, visual construction, and sensory processing) and distal outcomes (daily functioning and individualized goals). OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: SIT produced significant improvements in motor skills (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.03-0.89). Furthermore, SIT enhanced daily functioning (SMD = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.16-1.08) and individualized goals (SMD = 1.71, 95% CI = 0.80-2.62). Balance, visual construction, and sensory processing did not demonstrate statistically significant effects. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: SIT is an effective intervention for improving motor functions and for supporting better performance and participation in everyday occupations among children.