Forms of Rehabilitation of a Child With Autism Described in Modern Medical Literature

Abstract

Introduction Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with unknown etiopathogenesis. The clinical picture of every child with autism is different. The spectrum of symptoms includes a number of characteristic features that the patient manifests. Patients often have the problem of coexisting disorders. Difficulties in communication often make it difficult to diagnose. Hence the strictly individualized rehabilitation program, which should be tailored to the needs and preferences of the patient. Effective therapy should be carried out, taking into account the patient’s motivation and pleasure. Aim A systematic review of publications for the most commonly used therapies in the rehabilitation of patients with autism and their effectiveness confirmed scientifically. Material and methods A review of the literature on the PubMed search engine has been made since 2000. Search terms used: ‘autism’, ‘ASD’, ‘therapy’, ‘physiotherapy’, ‘rehabilitation’. Results Among the articles found in the PubMed search after entering keywords, it can be stated that the majority of publications concerned alternative medicine, especially animal therapy. Others have also appeared, e.g. manual therapy, martial arts, acupuncture, choreotherapy or music therapy. Conclusions Children with autism spectrum disorders require constant rehabilitation. The form it takes depends individually on the patient’s current state. The chosen therapy may affect one deficit aspect of the child, but not improve another, for which the next treatment is required to improve. Analysis of the publication, however, indicates the positive impact of rehabilitation in children with autism.