Compressive Garments in Individuals with Autism and Severe Proprioceptive Dysfunction: A Retrospective Exploratory Case Series

Abstract

(1) Background: Compression garments (CGs) are an adjuvant treatment for generalized joint hypermobility (GJH), including the Ehlers–Danlos syndrome/hypermobility types. The effects of CGs are likely to be related to better proprioceptive control. We aimed to explore the use of CGs in individuals with autism and severe proprioceptive dysfunction (SPD), including individuals with GJH, to control posture and challenging behaviors. (2) Methods: We retrospectively described 14 patients with autism and SPD, including seven with comorbid GJH, who were hospitalized for major challenging behaviors with remaining behavioral symptomatology after the implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, including medication, treatment of organic comorbidities, and behavioral restructuring. Each patient received a CG to wear for at least 1 h (but most often longer) per day for six weeks. We assessed challenging behaviors in these participants with the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), sensory integration with the Dunn questionnaire, and postural sway and motor performance using a self-designed motricity path at baseline, two weeks, and six weeks. (3) Results: We observed a significant effect on most ABC rating scores at two weeks, which persisted at six weeks (total score, p = 0.004; irritability, p = 0.007; hyperactivity, p = 0.001; lethargy, p = 0.001). Postural control in dorsal and profile positions was significantly improved between before and after wearing the CGs (p = 0.006 and 0.007, respectively). Motor performance was also significantly improved. However, we did not observe a significant change in Dunn sensory scores. During the six-week duration, the treatment was generally well-tolerated. A comorbid GJH diagnosis was not associated with a better outcome. (4) Conclusions: CGs appear to be a promising adjuvant treatment for both behavioral and postural impairments in individuals with autism and SPD.

The Effectiveness of Compression Garments for Reducing Pain in Non-Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study

“…Previous work suggested that CGs may improve proprioception in patients with EDS and that this may lead to decreased pain [ 12 ]. In line with this, several studies showed improved postural control in patients wearing CGs [ 22 , 38 , 39 ]. In our study, we did not directly test proprioception, but we used the Berg Balance Scale to assess postural control.…”

“…They are usually selected to cover specific anatomical regions that may benefit from the CGs, such as the ankles, knees, hips, or hands. It is thought that CGs may be of benefit to patients with EDS by improving proprioception [ 12 , 22 ]. It was suggested that this may involve ‘filtering’ effects, where the CGs reduce the transmission of irrelevant sensory information so that proprioception is improved [ 23 ].…”

Neurodevelopmental atypisms in the context of joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders, and Ehlers–Danlos syndromes

“…The combination of these techniques was successful in eliminating the target behavior. Guinchat et al (2020) conducted a study with 14 young patients with severe autism and proprioceptive impairment. Half of them had JHM and the majority had challenging behaviors.…”

Exploring Effects of Sensory Garments on Participation of Children on the Autism Spectrum: A Pretest-Posttest Repeated Measure Design

“…Literature shows mixed results for sensory interventions, and research on various sensory garments as a primary support for sensory processing is limited. Compression garments are one type of deep pressure intervention that may help regulate the sensory system through pressure applied to the body [ 19 , 20 ]. As these garments distribute pressure evenly on the body compared to weighted vests which localize pressure to the shoulders, they may promote increased body awareness and focus.…”