Proprioceptive Processing Difficulties Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Objective Sensory processing difficulties among children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have been extensively documented. However, less is known about this population's ability to process proprioceptive information. Method We used the Comprehensive Observations of Proprioception (COP; Blanche, Bodison, Chang, & Reinoso, in press) to describe the proprioceptive difficulties experienced by children with ASD. A sample of 32 children with ASD, 26 children with developmental disabilities excluding ASD, and 28 typically developing control children were studied using the COP. Results Children with ASD present with proprioceptive processing difficulties that are different from those of children with developmental disabilities and their typically developing counterparts. Specific data, potential clinical applications, and directions for future research are described. Conclusion Results suggest that the COP has useful clinical research applications. Further assessment of psychometric properties, clinical utility, and meaningful differences among diverse clinical populations are needed.

Proprioception and vestibular alterations affect postural control in children with mild autism: A pilot study

“…Contrary to a stable surface, ML oscillations predominated under all conditions on the unstable surface (Table 2). One possible explanation for this event may be that the alteration of the proprioceptive system is responsible for the adjustment of the activation of the musculature of the trunk, thus causing instability in the ML direction (Blanche et al, 2012;Fournier et al, 2010b;Hansson et al, 2010). Another possible justification might be related to balance control in the ML direction, mainly occurring due to weakness at the hip and trunk areas.…”

“…These results lead us to believe that proprioceptive input in children with autism could interfere with the ability of this system to send the correct information to maintain proper postural stability. (Blanche et al, 2012;Fournier et al, 2010b;Hansson et al, 2010;Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 2001b). Contrary to a stable surface, ML oscillations predominated under all conditions on the unstable surface (Table 2).…”

“…Nevertheless, problems in motor control may be caused by some deficit in postural control mechanisms (visual, proprioceptive and vestibular systems) or problems in the integration/adaptation of these systems (Blanche et al, 2012;Fournier et al, 2010a;Fournier et al, 2010b;Kern et al, 2007;Kohen-Raz et al, 1992;Molloy et al, 2003;Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 2001b).…”

“…Also, children with ASD have difficulty in the integration of sensory information. Specifically, deficits may exist in the processing of vestibular and proprioceptive information when compared to children with normal development (Blanche et al, 2012;Fournier et al, 2010b;Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 2001a).…”

Using an AR Drone Lab in a Secondary Education Classroom to Promote Quantitative Research

“…However, participation in sports tend to require motor control and several studies have reported on the motor control difficulties in children with ASD, including how proprioceptive difficulties among children with ASD may contribute to decreased motor planning and to disruptive behaviors that negatively affect their participation in daily tasks. 19 Thus, participation in STEM based gamified activities can serve as an alternative opportunity to develop collaborative and social communication skills. The AR Drone lab affords students with ASD a chance to participate in an activity based on their interest while also providing an opportunity to develop the critical social skills for future success.…”