Abstract :
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often have difficulties in fundamental motor skills like
walking, running, and jumping. In children with ASD, balance is critical which is essential for
performing fundamental motor skills and participating in various forms of physical activities and ADL.
Due to impairments of balance, the children of ASD may have increased risk of falling during performing
various physical activities, experience limited opportunities for learning and face difficulties in engaging
in inclusive or community settings. Recent studies revealed many approaches to improve balance; one of
the most important of them is the Feldenkrais method of balance training. This study is intended to find
out the effectiveness of Feldenkrais method of balance training to improve balance and motor function in
children with ASD.
Methods: 30 subjects with age group 6 to 15 years diagnosed with ASD were taken for the study.
Experimental group receive Feldenkrais Method of balance training. Treatment duration is thirty to sixty
minutes per session for ten weeks. Before and after treatment, the subjects were assessed by Pediatric
Balance Scale and GMFM. Statistical analysis was done using Wilcoxon matched pairs test.
Result: Results shown significant improvement of the group in both Pediatric balance scale and GMFM.
P value is.0001. Our study indicates that Feldenkrais Method is useful in improving balance and motor
function.
Conclusion: The results of our study supports that Feldenkrais Method of balance training is effective in
improving balance and motor function in children with ASD.
Keyword :
Feldenkrais Method, ASD, Balance, Motor function