Neurologische Störungen

Postural Balance Control and its Relation to Daily Living Skills in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Brito Mayara Pacífico and Boffino Catarina Costa*

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that involves a spectrum of manifestations, including alterations in restricted and repetitive sensory motor behavior and social communication deficits that expresses in activities of daily living. The functionality of posture and balance is investigated by observing aspects related to physical measures and clinical characteristics of the center of pressure sway and daily living skills (DLS) in individuals with ASD.
Objective: To characterize the functionality of postural control in patients diagnosed with ASD and to observe correlations between changes in postural control in clinical features and DLS.
Methodology: This study conducted a bibliographical survey in the PubMed, SciElo, PEDro, and Bireme databases. The inclusion criteria included studies from 2011 to 2021, free texts in Portuguese and English, and articles of evaluations in children up to the age of adults (44 years) that were within the study objective. Articles excluded described coordination and balance disorders other than ASD, studies proposing treatment protocols, and evaluations of adults older than 45.
Results: Five pieces compose this review in which the characteristics observed show postural balance changes. There is a difference in the performance of individuals with ASD and typical development (TD), showing a longer time for postural development and difficulties in DLS.
Conclusion: Although the studies present different ways of evaluating postural and balance development, balance disorders are evident, considering a correlation between DLS and IQ.