Autism, Motor Development and the NDIS | Physio Advice

When to See a Physiotherapist About Motor Development in Autism

If you are a parent or caregiver of a child with ASD, you should be aware of the signs that indicate the need for physiotherapy intervention. Physiotherapy can help children with ASD overcome motor disorders, improve motor control, and support overall development.

If your child is showing signs that they need support, they may benefit from early intervention programs.

These programs can help identify your child’s motor difficulties and provide strategies to address them. Suppose your child’s symptoms are minor, but you still have concerns about their motor development, seeking an assessment from a qualified healthcare professional is still essential.

Early Identification and Assessment

Early identification and assessment of developmental motor disorders are essential for children with ASD. Research has suggested that early childhood motor developmental delays can be an early indicator of ASD, arising before other signs develop [v]. As such, physiotherapists are critical in identifying and assessing developmental motor disorders in children with ASD.

Physiotherapists are highly trained in identifying disruptions to normal development. They have the skills to screen for motor disorders and observe a child’s overall development over time. Physiotherapists who specifically work with children can identify any early motor difficulties and refer the child for further screening and diagnosis if they feel it is warranted.

Gross and Fine Motor Skills Management

Once a motor development issue has been identified, a physiotherapist will be involved in management. The NDIS plan manager may organise a planning meeting to discuss the child’s developmental delay and specify the goals of the therapy program. The physiotherapist will then develop a tailored intervention plan that addresses the child’s specific needs. NDIS physiotherapists use tailored exercise programs and sometimes other therapies (such as massage, stretching, electrotherapy and hydrotherapy) to support:

• Gross Motor Skills – such as sitting, crawling, standing, walking, and kicking
• Fine Motor Skills – such as holding scissors, doing up buttons, and handwriting
• Posture and Alignment – for sitting and standing, including wheelchair seating
• Coordination – including hand/eye coordination and complex tasks such as ball skills
• Managing Muscle Tone Issues – including high and low muscle tone
• Strength Development – such as upper and lower body strength for participating in play-based activities and sports
• Improved Balance – for participation in games, sports, and group activities

The physiotherapy program is always based on an individual’s needs and goals and involves engaging and age-appropriate functional tasks. Therapy is often play-based to ensure strong engagement, essential for the best outcomes. Physiotherapists may also use technology-based interventions, such as movement activities using tablets and computer games, to support the child’s motor planning.

Studies have shown that physiotherapy interventions are effective in improving motor skills. For example, a systematic review of 20 movement interventions found that they were practical for improving gross motor skills [vi]. In addition to providing therapy, physiotherapists also train support people, such as parents and caregivers, to perform specific types of play, therapeutic exercises or stretches at home, which can aid in self-management of the disorder.

Accessing Physio Through the NDIS for Autism Support

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian government-funded initiative that supports people with disabilities, including those diagnosed with ASD. One of the supports that can be accessed through the NDIS is physiotherapy.

According to figures from the NDIS, 29 per cent of participants with an approved plan had a primary disability of ASD – meaning it is the NDIS’s largest primary disability category [ix]. If you are seeking physiotherapy services for your child through the NDIS, you will need to make an access request to become a scheme participant. You can do this by calling 1800 800 110 or completing and submitting a form via email.

To become a NDIS participant, the child must be diagnosed with a disability significantly affecting their ability to perform everyday activities, such as motor skills. The diagnosis must meet the diagnostic criteria set out in the DSM-5. Once a child is diagnosed, they can participate in a NDIS planning meeting to discuss their needs and goals with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

Effective Therapy for Motor Development at Active Ability

When comparing potential strategies for supporting motor development in a child with ASD, it’s essential to look for therapies that are backed by research. As tertiary-qualified and registered allied health professionals, physios use therapies backed by sound evidence.

A physio working with individuals with disability will be up to date with current research and can advise you about the best, evidence-based strategies for supporting someone with autism to achieve their movement potential and participate at home, school and in their community.

Like more information before arranging a service agreement with Active Ability?

Contact us or call us on (02) 8678 7874 (Monday to Friday) and one of our friendly team members will gladly answer your questions.

If you’re keen to get started with a NDIS-registered physiotherapist to help with motor skill development and are ready
for a service agreement, please fill out us NDIS referral form.