Dynamic Postural Control in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Dynamic postural control is crucial for daily functioning, independence, and overall quality of life.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect motor skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate how dynamic postural control is affected in children with ASD compared to typically developing peers.
• To synthesize findings on postural control in children with ASD during dynamic tasks.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed across PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and EMBASE.
• Studies comparing dynamic postural stability in children with ASD and typically developing children were selected.

Main Results:

• Thirteen studies (2005-2024) met the criteria, with eight of good and five of fair methodological quality.
• Children with ASD demonstrated impaired dynamic postural control, characterized by reduced stability and increased sway.
• Neuromotor deficits lead to greater vulnerability in maintaining body alignment and center of pressure, necessitating compensatory movements.

Conclusions:

• Children with ASD present with compromised dynamic postural control, exhibiting reduced stability and specific compensatory strategies to maintain posture.
• Further research is recommended to explore the influence of sensory information, age, cognitive abilities, and support levels on dynamic postural control in ASD.