Journal of Clinical Physiotherapy Research

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to investigate how physical activities can help enhance static and dynamic balance in children with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who often experience difficulties with communication, cognitive abilities, and motor skills. Materials and Methods: The study is a randomized, single-blind clinical trial examining the impact of physical activities on static and dynamic balance in 6-12-year-old hildren with high-functioning ASD from Tehran's rehabilitation centers and special schools. Initially, 30 participants were chosen, then divided into two groups of 15 using block randomization. The intervention group underwent 24 sessions of physical exercises in 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week, and the control group followed their routine therapies as before while their balance was assessed using force plate tools and the Walking heel to toe test before and after the interventions. Results: Findings indicated that static and dynamic balance in children with high function ASD improved significantly by physical activities (P<0.05). The center of pressure sway decreased significantly in lateral displacement (P=0.001), Anterior-Posterior displacement (P=0.002), mean velocity of sway (P=0.003), and sway area (P=0.004), demonstrating improved stability and control. Moreover, the walking heel to toe test score improved significantly in the intervention group compared to the control group (P<0.001). Conclusion: It seems that physical activities can improve static and dynamic balance in children with high function ASD, so therapists can use physical activities to increase balance and improve movement disorders in children with high functioning ASD.