Physiotherapy Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder : Case Report

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological disorder characterized by limited social
communication and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests and activities. Children
with autism spectrum disorder also have limitations in motor skills, coordination,
balance, movement planning and movement control, as well as errors in processing
information. to stimuli through touch or tactile. In this case, the MAW patient was
diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder with complaints that the child likes to throw
things, limitations in communicating, always repeating words, excessive emotions, and
likes to walk around in circles and there are some primitive reflexes that have not been
integrated. MAW patients are given physiotherapy intervention with Neurosensorimotor
Reflex Integration, Massage, and Physical Exercises to stimulate sensory, integrate
reflexes, relax, tactile stimulation and improve motor skills. After being given the
intervention 4 times, from T0-T4 the plantar reflexes were not integrated, from T0-T4
the Babynsky reflexes were not integrated, while the protective reflexes were integrated
in T4. Children feel calmer receiving massage on T3 and T4. While the physical exercise
intervention has not given significant results on motor improvement. There has been no
significant change in children with autism spectrum disorders after giving physiotherapy
intervention, which could be due to the lack of intensity and frequency of therapy.