Physiotherapy

Movement is an integral part of our social, emotional, and physical lives. Children with autism seem to not have any physical problems however that’s not true. They often cannot coordinate the myriad of movements needed to complete these interactions.

What are the physical problems that need to be addressed in children with autism?

• Poor coordination and balance (tripping over their feet, difficulty learning complex motor tasks, difficulty in executing movements in sequential pattern, etc.)
• Low muscle tone (clumsiness, avoids physical activities like running, jumping and hopping, frequent falls, etc.)
• Muscle weakness (scapular winging, hyperextension of the knees and reluctance to lift heavy objects)
• Muscle tightness (neck flexors, pectoral muscles, hip flexors, etc.)
• Generalized hyper mobility of joints (Flat feet, Hyperextension of elbows and knees on passive movement, Poor posture, etc.)
• Postural deviations (lordotic posture while standing, kyphotic posture in sitting and protracted shoulders)

The physiotherapist may need to assess the child over multiple sessions to identify the motor impairments. During a Physical Therapy Evaluation a child’s neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems are assessed.

What are the benefits of physiotherapy sessions for children with autism?

The benefits of physiotherapy in autism are listed below:

• Learn to perform the ideation, sequencing, timing and execution components of motor planning.
• Improve static balance to improve motor control and attention and decrease impulsivity.
• Lay down the foundations of gross motor skills to support participation in community and peer activities.
• Calming and relaxing effect
• Reduces clumsiness
• Improve postural control to increase stability during fine motor, gross motor, and self-care activities.
• Maximize sensory processing and organization skills to put into controlled motor skills.

Research has found that vigorous physical activity can be a highly effective form of autism treatment. According to a study which was published in 1982 in the "Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders," found that jogging sessions resulted in a decrease in self-stimulatory behaviors and led to an increase in suitable play and academic responding. Hence, regular sessions of physical therapy can be beneficial for children with autism.