An exploratory study into an adapted use of the Alert Program for tic disorder in children

Abstract

Objectives:

This preliminary study explored whether an adapted approach to the Alert Program, that uses sensorimotor strategies, might assist with management of tic disorders in children.

The Alert Program, a program that uses sensorimotor strategies for self-regulation in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, had not been trialled with children with tic disorders.

Methods:

Ten children with tic disorder were assessed using the Dunn Sensory Profile 2 (SP2), the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) and the Parent Tic Questionnaire (PTQ). Participants attended three 60–90-minute appointments with an occupational therapist and clinical psychologist for implementation of the adapted Alert Program.

Results:

The YGTSS showed tic reduction in all participants. The total YGTSS pre-intervention mean score of 46.5 improved to 17.7 post-therapy. Five participants reported no impairment post-therapy. PTQ scores reduced in nine participants. On the SP2, 30% of participants scored as having sensory sensitivities that impaired daily function.

Conclusions:

This exploratory study found trialling an adapted approach to the Alert Program that uses sensorimotor-based approach decreased tic severity in children with tic disorders. A randomised controlled trial is needed to establish the effectiveness and feasibility of this approach.