Physiotherapy is more than improving physical function; evidence demonstrates its role in developing the social and daily living skills needed for everyday life.

Movement difficulties are highly prevalent in children with Autism who often experience physical challenges such as impaired motor planning and coordination. When combined with challenges in communication, social skills and behaviour, gross motor delays can lead to more complex difficulties with learning and development across all domains and place autistic children further at risk of developing acute and chronic health conditions. As research demonstrates that children with autism may engage in less physical activity and more sedentary behaviours than their neurotypical peers, a balanced intervention plan should incorporate ways to encourage healthy movement.

Physiotherapy is emerging as a valuable addition to holistic early intervention when supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The inclusion of physiotherapy in your multidisciplinary intervention brings about significant and long-lasting gains. Consistent physical therapy interventions can improve physical abilities, lead to increased social and educational engagement and improve the overall physical and psychological well-being in individuals with ASD. 

What supports can physiotherapists provide?

Motor skill development and coordination

Motor coordination challenges not only impact upon movements such as walking, running or playing sport, but also a person’s independence and safety in daily tasks like writing or having a shower. Physiotherapists love to energise children with games and exercises that can be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of your child’s world, like the playground or school yard. By incorporating fun into balance exercises, refining motor control, and developing strength and coordination, Physiotherapists can help motivate your child and empower them to conquer every day with more skills and a bright new confidence.

Sensory integration and body awareness

Supporting children with autism requires attention to complex sensory processing needs therefore assessing the development of motor skills considers any underlying neurological factors such as sensory integration and body awareness. Techniques such as deep pressure therapy, vestibular stimulation, and proprioceptive activities can help regulate sensory processing and improve sensory-motor integration. These techniques aim to improve your child’s understanding and mastery of their body, reduce sensory sensitivities and learn the skills of self-regulation to promote a sense of calm and focus.

Physiotherapy and communication

As a parent, you recognize the significance of communication in your child’s world. Physiotherapists collaborate with speech therapists and occupational therapists to refine oral motor skills, bolster breath control, and fine-tune the motor control required for written communication, AAC use, and body language such as gestures and signing. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to maximising the benefits of intervention and addressing the many underlying factors that contribute to speech and communication.

Physiotherapy and behaviour

Building motor skills may appear to focus primarily on physical performance, however supporting children with the physical execution of tasks has a much broader impact on their overall wellbeing. Physiotherapists capitalise on movement to help regulate behaviours commonly associated with ASD by promoting relaxation, re-establishing sensory equilibrium, and fostering emotional expression and regulation. Physiotherapy can help children with autism to participate in a wider range of everyday activities, which can build your child’s self-esteem and confidence to achieve their dreams.

Seeking support from an Early Start Australia physiotherapist

Motor skills deficits associated with ASD can appear as early as 14 months, and as children approach 24 months, difficulties with motor development or planning can indicate the need for targeted physiotherapy. If you wish to review how your child’s gross motor skills are progressing, then speak to our therapists about the value of including physiotherapy in your early intervention team.

Alternatively, you may choose to arrange an assessment, which can serve as the first step in creating a tailored and holistic therapy plan for your child. Call our Client Care Team on 1300 372 439 to find out more or book online now.