The Science Behind Proprioception vs. Vestibular Processing

The Science Behind Proprioception vs. Vestibular Processing — Educational Infographic (Printable, A2)

You will receive the printable unwatermarked version of this infographic

A comprehensive, research-grounded visual explaining why deep joint pressure ("heavy work") calms the nervous system, while fast movement stimulates or disorients.

This infographic covers:

• Proprioception (heavy work): deep pressure, body awareness, grounding, calming — input from muscles and joints, often organising and regulating
• Vestibular (fast movement): movement, stimulation, alerting, can disorient — input from the inner ear via semicircular canals and otolith organs
• Anatomical pathway: muscles & joints, brainstem, cerebellum, autonomic nervous system, inner ear/vestibular system
• Examples of heavy work: pushing, carrying, squeezing, climbing, weighted pressure
• Examples of fast movement: spinning, rapid movement, swinging, car rides, sudden turns
• What it can look like: when proprioceptive input helps (seeking hugs, calmer after heavy work) vs. when vestibular input overloads (dizziness, becoming silly/wobbly, struggling with escalators or swings)
• What actually helps: match the tool to the system, use vestibular input carefully (watch speed/direction/duration), reduce spinning if dysregulating, support regulation first
• Key message: heavy work often organises the body, fast movement often wakes it up
• Grounded in peer-reviewed research (Bestbier et al. 2017; Wiener-Vacher et al. 2013; Kearney et al. 2022; Urbančič et al. 2023; Guardado 2023)

What you get:

• High-resolution PDF, print-ready and scalable up to A2 (420 × 594mm)
• Instant digital download

Perfect for: SEND and OT training, therapy rooms, staff CPD, parent carer forums, and personal understanding.

For personal, classroom, and professional educational use. Not for resale or redistribution.

© Nonspeaking Autism

Disclaimer:

This resource is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is designed to support understanding of autism, sensory processing, nervous system regulation, and behaviour from a neurodevelopmental perspective.

The information provided is not medical, psychological, therapeutic, or legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Every autistic person is unique. Strategies and supports should always be tailored to the individual's needs, strengths, and circumstances.

If a child displays a sudden change in behaviour, severe distress, signs of illness, injury, or behaviours that place themselves or others at risk, seek appropriate medical advice or emergency assistance where necessary.

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and reflects current understanding, knowledge in autism and neuroscience continues to evolve.

This resource is for the purchaser's personal, educational, or professional use only. It may not be copied, redistributed, resold, edited, shared publicly, or reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.

© Nonspeaking Autism 💙