Does the Integration of Primary Reflex Schemas According to Masgutovas Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration Improve Functioning and Quality of Life Among Children with Spectrum of Foetal Alcohol Disorders?

Abstract

Introduction: Foetal Alcohol Disorder Spectrum (FASD) is an incurable, non-genetic disorder that can occur in children whose mothers consumed alcohol during pregnancy. Patients with FASD are characterised by extensive damage to the central nervous system, neurological disorders, delays in physical and mental development, as well as difficulties in emotional regulation and behavioural disturbances. Neurosensory Integration of Reflexes by S. Masgutova is a holistic rehabilitation and therapeutic programme focused on the diagnosis and integration of primary reflex mechanisms. Intrauterine exposure of the foetus to alcohol affects the lack of proper reflex mechanism integration, which constitutes the foundation of harmonious psychomotor, cognitive, emotional and social development.The aim: The aim of this study is to present the role of primary reflex integration disorders according to MNRI in children with the Spectrum of Foetal Alcohol Disorders (FASD), as well as to discuss the impact of integrating primary reflex disorders according to MNRI on the functioning of FASD in children.Methods: The therapy comprised 103 patients (44 girls and 59 boys) aged 1-13 years with FASD, diagnosed according to the criteria of ICD-10 (Q 86.0). The mean age of the patients was 7.13 years (SD 3.26). Each participant took active participation in 2 rehabilitation interventions according to MNRI, the average interval between the stays was 4 months and 1 week (17 weeks).Results: In patients with FASD, the biomechanics of reflex patterns, such as: Babkin's, ATOS, hand support, paralyzing fear, Galant, grasping hands and Babinski, improved after MNRI therapy.Conclusions: Our research allows to indicate that the rehabilitated FASD patients following MNRI therapy could hug their caregivers more easily, thumb-sucking activity decreased, coordination improved, sleep quality significantly improved while psychomotor hyperactivity decreased.