THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS IN MOTOR DEVELOPMENT IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the importance of physiotherapy interventions in the motor development of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is an integrative literature review, conducted in six methodological steps. The search was carried out in March 2026 in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), encompassing the LILACS, MEDLINE, and BDENF databases. Articles published between 2021 and 2026, freely available and related to the proposed theme, were included. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, five studies comprised the final sample of the review. The analyzed studies showed that different physiotherapy approaches, such as motor physiotherapy, psychomotor interventions, structured physical exercises, sensory integration, hydrotherapy, and equine therapy, contribute significantly to the motor development of children with ASD. Among the main benefits observed are improvements in motor coordination, balance, postural control, motor planning, and functionality in activities of daily living. It is concluded that physiotherapy interventions play a fundamental role in the motor development of children with ASD, promoting greater autonomy, social inclusion, and quality of life, especially when performed early, individually, and integrated into a multidisciplinary approach.