PT can Benefit Children with Autism
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a range of developmental conditions. These conditions affect how a person communicates, interacts, and behaves. ASD is called a spectrum disorder because the symptoms and severity can vary widely from one person to another. While not always the first thing people think of, PT can benefit children with autism by helping with development of gross motor skills. Typical signs and symptoms of autism include:
- Having difficulty with communication and social interaction
- Restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior such as repeating words or phrases, lining up objects, or having intense and narrow interests
- Sensory issues, such as being over- or under-sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures
How Can PT Help Children with Autism?
Children with autism also often have difficulties with motor skills, which affect their daily functioning and quality of life. For example, they may have trouble with balance, coordination, motor planning, and body control. They may also have low muscle tone, which can make them appear floppy or weak. These challenges make it hard for them to participate in physical activities like playing games or on playgrounds with peers, which are important for both their physical and mental health.
Physical therapy can help children with autism overcome these difficulties and improve their motor skills. Using individualized and structured interventions, pediatric physical therapists help children with autism learn new skills and practice them in a fun and motivating way. Physical therapy can also help children with autism develop a positive attitude toward physical activity and enjoy the benefits of exercise, such as improved mood, energy, and sleep.
Improved gross motor skills and increased physical activity also supports the development of other areas affected by autism. This includes things like social and emotional skills. Physical activities can provide opportunities for children with autism to interact with their peers and family. It also helps them express their feelings and follow rules and directions. PT can also benefit children with autism by helping them cope with sensory issues, such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to touch, sound, or movement. PTs do this by exposing them to different stimuli and helping them regulate their responses.
References
- Physical Activities for Children with Autism – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32192008/