Physical Therapy for Autism

Physical therapy includes activities and exercises that build motor skills and improve strength, posture, and balance.

For example, this type of therapy aims to help a child build muscle control and strength so that he or she can play more easily with other children.

Problems with movement are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and many children with autism receive physical therapy.1 However, there is not yet solid evidence that particular therapies can improve movement skills in those with autism.2,3

You can find a physical therapist near you using the American Physical Therapy Association website External Web Site Policy.

Citations

  1. Autism Speaks. (2013). Treatments & Therapies. Retrieved September 17, 2013, from http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/tool-kits/100-day-kit/treatments-therapies External Web Site Policy
  2. Downey, R., & Rapport, M. J. (2012). Motor activity in children with autism: A review of current literature. Pediatric Physical Therapy, 24(1), 2–20.
  3. Bhat, A. N., Landa, R. J., & Galloway, J. C. (2011). Current perspectives on motor functioning infants, children, and adults with autism spectrum disorders. Physical Therapy, 91(7), 1116–1129.
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