Motor Activity in Children With Autism

Abstract

Physical therapists have expanded their role and visibility in the treatment of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Limitations in motor activity have not been considered in the assessments of core deficits of this population; however, physical therapists should be prepared to discuss and address these limitations in children with ASD. The primary purposes of this review were to summarize current evidence for motor activity limitations in children with ASD and suggest further areas of research in physical therapy and autism while considering how physical therapy may benefit children with autism. A literature search was carried out in 2009 and 2010 by using multiple search engines. Forty-nine articles met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Findings indicate that limitations in motor activity may be present in individuals with ASD, and further research is needed to identify specific functional limitations.