Compression Garments: Informed by Sensory Integration Dysfunction

This paper describes a user focused approach to the design of made-to-measure pressure emitting contemporary garments for children who are affected by the development disorder sensory integrative dysfunction (SID). These garments aim to aid the integration of tactile (touch), vestibular (movement) and proprioceptive (body position) sensations. The approach builds on previous pressure garment studies and design, focusing on the extension of the fabrication within the pressure providing textile structures. An individual case study informed the garment design. New directions in the development and prototyping of pressure garments are explored and enhanced through collaboration with the wearer, his family and therapists. The design process informs and addresses the needs of the child and his support community.