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A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
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Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Natascia Brondino1, Laura Fusar-Poli1, Matteo Rocchetti1
1Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pavia, Via Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
Summary
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) shows no conclusive efficacy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, music therapy, sensory integration, acupuncture, and massage show promising results for ASD patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is frequently used by individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Limited data exists on the effectiveness of CAM interventions for ASD.
- This systematic review addresses the need for evidence on CAM efficacy in ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and evaluate clinical trials investigating the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane.
- Initial screening of 2687 publications identified 139 for detailed evaluation.
- A total of 80 studies were included in the final analysis after thorough review and reference searching.
Main Results:
- The systematic review identified a significant body of literature on CAM for ASD.
- While overall conclusive evidence for CAM efficacy is lacking, specific therapies demonstrated potential.
- Music therapy, sensory integration therapy, acupuncture, and massage were highlighted as promising interventions.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not provide conclusive support for the general efficacy of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Certain CAM modalities, including music therapy, sensory integration therapy, acupuncture, and massage, warrant further investigation due to promising preliminary findings in ASD management.
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