The vestibular system regulates our sense of balance and position in space. The proprioceptic system is the system that connects the mind to the body, so that fluid movements are possible. Techniques employed to modulate these deeper sensory functions provide far greater overall calming than targeting merely the five basic sensory systems. In Moore’s article, “Sensory Based Therapy: The Missing Piece in DBT,” she outlines how when deeper vestibular and proprioceptic issues are addressed and treated, using OT techniques, deeper and more sustained sensory, and therefore emotional modulation occurs.

Occupational Therapy (OT) treatment is essential for treating sensory integration dysfunction (SID,) which I suffer from. However, Karen M Moore, MT, OTR/L conducted a small-scale study employing the “Wilbarger Brushing Protocol” with BPD sufferers. The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol consists of systematic brushing of various parts of the body, using a surgical brush, which “wakes up” the nerve endings. The brushing is always followed by deep joint compression to “re-organize” the nervous system. At first, the protocol involves brushing every two hours for two weeks. After this time, brushing is performed as maintenance on an “as needed” basis.

Moore found that those who followed through with this intensive method were free of self-injury 18 months later. She proposes that often self-injury is used to help regulate a nervous system that is out of balance. I agree. Although I have not self-injured in almost a decade now, I do believe a primary reason for it was sensory regulation. We receive data from our senses that is then processed through our brain. The brain translates this data into emotions. Therefore, emotional modulation techniques such as those taught in DBT are helpful, but sensory modulation techniques affect the nervous system far more deeply, and in many cases, permanently.

I’ve also used Listening Therapy for about a month now. Listening Therapy is a powerful technique that actually may improve concentration, attention, balance and coordination over time. All of these techniques regulate and balance the nervous system. Since I have used them, I have experienced a deeper sense of internal organization and overall calming.

Since these techniques may only be offered by a licensed occupational therapist, a doctor’s order is required, in order to receive services. Without a diagnosis of ADD or SID, it may be difficult to convince your doctor of the need. However, if you explain how studies done have showed some effectiveness of OT techniques with BPD, this may encourage your doctor to allow you to experience it.

Another essential tool that I use is a “sensory soothing kit.” I have a small bag that I carry in my purse. It contains: ear plugs, aromatherapy oils to inhale when I’m feeling stressed, scented lip gloss, hand lotion, facial tissues, a few hard candies, chewing gum, my “take as needed” medication and emergency phone numbers to call for support as needed. The contents of your kit may vary. However, carrying the kit provides a sense of security, although I rarely need to use it anymore.

Occupational Therapists have also found that some of the same tools that soothe autistic adults (and other people who have SID) also work to soothe BPD sufferers: examples include, weighted blankets (particularly fleece) or weighted vests, wrist or ankle pads or lap pads. I use all of these at different times, and I also use therapeutic cushions to sit on at times.