Use of R-WUK pressure suits in the therapy of patients with autism and Asperger syndrome: a preliminary report

Abstract

Pressure suits are used primarily to protect a pilot against increased G-forces and adverse effects of atmospheric pressure at high altitudes. However, pressure suits can also potentially be used for kinesitherapy in patients with orthopaedic, neurological and cognitive deficits, including in those with Asperger syndrome or autism. For this reason, pressure suits have been adapted for therapeutic purposes (rehabilitation). These suits have been named R-WUK. Results obtained in a pilot group show additional possibilities for the application of R-WUK suits in autism therapy and provide a different perspective on the problem of autism spectrum disorder therapy. The innovativeness of this approach is based on the fact that it does not involve any psychological, educational or pharmacological therapies; instead, it employs kinesitherapy with a system that primarily creates physical effects: the suit exerts pressure on the patient’s tissues using pneumatic mechanisms. The present approach also involves the use of physiotherapy methods such as PNF, NDT/Bobath and Stand&Go. As a result of the study intervention, significant changes were observed in the patients’ functioning and behaviour. The changes were so significant that it can be concluded that patients who have undergone R-WUK suit therapy function as neurotypical individuals. A low number of subjects in the study group does not allow one to make a definitive determination that all individuals with autism or Asperger syndrome will undergo similar changes in functioning as a result of the suit therapy.