Retrospective Analysis of Motor Development in Infants at High and Low Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Jill C Heathcock1, Kelly Tanner2, Danielle Robson3
1Jill C. Heathcock, MPT, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Division of Physical Therapy, The Ohio State University, Columbus; jill.heathcock@osumc.edu.
Insights
Infants at high risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show delays in upper-extremity and gross motor skills. Early monitoring of motor development in high-risk infants is crucial for timely intervention.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
- Early identification of developmental differences in infants at high risk for ASD is critical for timely intervention and improved outcomes.
- Motor skill development, including upper-extremity function, is an emerging area of focus for early ASD detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare upper-extremity and gross motor skill development between infants with and without risk factors for ASD.
- To identify potential early motor markers associated with the later diagnosis of ASD.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of longitudinal data from 39 infants (25 high-risk for ASD, 14 low-risk).
- Developmental assessments of upper-extremity and gross motor skills were conducted at 2, 4, and 6 months of age.
- Follow-up data confirmed ASD diagnosis in 5 infants by 2-4 years of age.
Main Results:
- Infants at high risk for ASD exhibited significantly fewer midline behaviors involving the upper extremities compared to low-risk infants.
- Delayed gross motor skill development was observed in the high-risk group, with the most pronounced differences noted at 4 months of age.
- These motor differences suggest potential early indicators for ASD risk.
Conclusions:
- Motor delays, particularly in midline behaviors and overall gross motor skills, are evident in infants at high risk for ASD.
- Routine monitoring of motor development, including specific attention to upper-extremity function and midline play, is recommended for high-risk infants.
- These motor skills represent potential targets for early assessment and therapeutic interventions in infants at risk for ASD.
Objective:
To measure upper-extremity and gross motor skill development in infants with and without risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Method:
Data were coded retrospectively from 39 infants who participated in longitudinal structured early developmental assessments. Twenty-five infants were at high risk for ASD, and the remaining 14 infants were classified as low risk. Upper-extremity and motor skill development were coded at ages 2, 4, and 6 mo. Five infants went on to receive an ASD diagnosis at age 2-4 yr.
Results:
Infants at high risk for ASD demonstrated fewer midline behaviors with the upper extremities and delayed motor skill development than the low-risk group. Differences in motor skills were most apparent at age 4 mo.
Conclusion:
Early monitoring for motor delay in infants at high risk for ASD is warranted. Midline control and play with the upper extremities and overall motor skill development are possible assessment and therapeutic targets.
