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LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this chapter, the reader will be able to:
Define autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and its major subtypes.
Integrate information regarding pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, and potential differential and associated diagnoses of ASD.
Identify appropriate screening and diagnostic tools used to diagnose ASD.
Select appropriate outcomes measures to administer during physical therapy evaluation of children with ASD.
Discuss the wide range of sensory and behavioral needs of children with ASD.
Apply evidence-based interventions and management strategies in developing a plan of care for individuals with the diagnosis of ASD.
Discuss the prognosis for individuals with ASD and identify appropriate referrals and community resources available.
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by social, communication, intellectual, and behavioral challenges.1-3 The term spectrum denotes the broad range of conditions and levels of severity that affect individuals with this diagnosis. Children diagnosed with ASD often struggle with delayed motor development, impaired balance and coordination, and sensorimotor impairments that can impact function, limit physical activity, inhibit participation, and ultimately affect the potential for independence as an adult.
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Over the past 2 decades, the incidence of ASD has increased at an alarming rate, both in the United States and around the world. The impact of this dramatic rise has far-reaching effects, extending well beyond the individual diagnosed with the disorder. According to recent studies, the growing number of children diagnosed with ASD has resulted in a significant economic burden from both direct and indirect costs. During childhood, most of these costs include medical care, behavioral intervention, special education, and lost parental productivity. As adults, the financial impact is mostly attributed to residential care, supported living, and individual loss of productivity.4,5
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Individuals with ASD and their caregivers can benefit greatly from physical therapists’ knowledge, expertise, and guidance throughout their life course to improve function and participation, prevent secondary impairments, assist with postsecondary transitions, facilitate improved health and wellness, and improve the potential for independent living. This chapter provides an overview of ASD, including diagnostic testing and clinical presentation, a review of the role of the physical therapist as a member of the interprofessional team, a description of evidence-based outcomes measures, and physical therapy (PT) evaluation procedures, support strategies, and interventions. Case studies and videos further explore the role of PT through the life course for individuals with ASD.
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Over the past 2 decades, the number of children diagnosed with ASD has increased dramatically. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the incidence of ASD in the United States jumped from a rate of 1 in 150 in the early 1990s, to a rate of 1 in 36 in the most recent surveillance report from 2020.6,7 Individuals diagnosed with ASD represent all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, and ...