APTA Private Practice

What Is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), describes a range of developmental conditions that 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.

Typical signs and symptoms of autism include:

  • Having difficulty with communication and social interaction.
  • Displaying restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, such as repeating words or phrases, lining up objects, or having intense and narrow interests.
  • Experiencing sensory issues, meaning a child may be over-sensitive or under-sensitive to stimuli like sounds, lights, or textures.

The Physical Challenges of Autism

While autism is often associated with social and behavioral traits, children with autism also often have difficulties with motor skills.

This affects their daily functioning and quality of life.

Children may experience trouble with balance, coordination, motor planning, and body control. They may have low muscle tone, which can make them appear floppy or weak. These physical barriers make it hard for them to participate in physical activities like playing games or navigating playgrounds with peers, which are important for both their physical and mental health.

How Physical Therapy Helps

Pediatric physical therapists use individualized and structured interventions to help children with autism overcome these difficulties and improve their motor skills in fun and motivating ways. 

Physical therapy for kids often looks more like play than a traditional PT session!

When a child improves their physical abilities, it allows them to develop a positive attitude toward physical activity and enjoy the benefits of exercise, like improved mood, energy, and sleep. 

Physical therapy can also help children with autism cope with sensory issues, such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to touch, sound, or movement, by exposing them to different stimuli and helping them regulate their responses.

Supporting Social and Emotional Growth

Improved gross motor skills and increased physical activity can also support the development of other areas that are affected by autism, like social and emotional skills.

Physical activities can provide structured opportunities for children with autism to interact with their peers and family.

During these activities, they learn to express their feelings, practice following rules, and follow directions in a safe environment.

Finding a Qualified Physical Therapist

If you think your child with autism may benefit from physical therapy, look for a physical therapist who specializes in working with children with autism, or consult with your pediatrician for a referral.

 You can also search for a physical therapist near you using the American Physical Therapy Association website at https://www.choosept.com/find-a-pt

 

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