How Do Sensory Processing Differences Relate to Proprioception in Autism?

PostedDecember 18, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Proprioception in autism is a common Sensory Processing difference that affects how the brain understands and responds to body position and movement. Many autistic individuals experience difficulties with body awareness, which impacts their ability to sense where their body is in space and how it is moving.

For someone with proprioception in autism, this lack of awareness can lead to clumsiness, difficulty with motor control, or a need for extra sensory input to help them understand their body’s position. These challenges can affect daily tasks, such as navigating spaces, coordinating movements, or interacting with others.

While proprioception in autism can cause challenges in motor control and coordination, it can also drive sensory-seeking behaviours. Many individuals engage in actions like jumping, crashing, or squeezing to gain additional sensory feedback. With proper support, these behaviours can be redirected into more functional activities.

Common Symptoms of Proprioception in Autism

Here are a few signs of body awareness issues and how they can be supported:

Clumsiness or difficulty with motor coordination

Difficulty with balance, hand-eye coordination, or performing tasks requiring precise motor control. Occupational therapy focusing on motor control and proprioceptive activities (e.g., pushing, pulling, or carrying heavy objects) can help improve motor skills.

Engaging in sensory-seeking behaviours (e.g., crashing, jumping)

Seeking intense physical input, such as jumping or squeezing, to understand body positioning. Sensory integration therapy can help provide the right amount of proprioceptive input in a controlled, structured way.

Difficulty staying still or maintaining posture

Difficulty sitting or standing still due to a lack of proprioceptive feedback. Movement-based interventions or weighted vests may help improve posture and body awareness.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on improving body awareness and managing motor control challenges.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.