This narrative review aims to analyze different gait patterns among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and explore the underlying causes of gait impairments. The study aims to identify potential accessibility factors that contribute The purpose of this narrative review is to analyze different gait patterns among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and explore the underlying causes of gait impairments. The study aims to identify potential accessibility factors that contribute
This study employed a narrative review design, focusing on the gait patterns of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The review was conducted within an institutional practice setting, utilizing keyword searches across several academic databases, including Medline, CINAHL, ISI, and IBSS. The search terms used were “autism,” “autism spectrum disorder,” “gait in autism,” and “sensory issues and gait.” Additionally, manual searches were performed on relevant publications and references cited in primary papers to ensure a comprehensive review of the available literature. The final selection of studies included 11 of 17 identified articles, which met the criteria for assessing gait mechanics and accessibility factors related to gait impairments in children with ASD.
Eleven articles were included out of 17 articles. The children's joint mechanics varied from one another. Younger toddlers showed more knee extension and foot dorsiflexion during heel strike. When compared to children of similar ages and walking rates who were considered to be typical development, the dorsiflexion angle was significantly higher. Understanding how plantar loading strategy and balance control behave while walking, sprinting, and pivoting may have therapeutic repercussions for the recovery and training of everyday chores.
The findings suggest that The higher ankle dorsiflexion angle in the ASD group may be related to the increased ankle rigidity seen during the loading reaction. Increased ankle plantarflexion may be necessary to achieve the flat foot posture on the ground required during the loading period due to the higher ankle dorsiflexion angle at heel strike. The dorsiflexion muscles may need to engage more eccentrically as a result of the increased plantarflexion motion to slow the foot gradually and avoid foot slapping. Future research should look into how sensations are perceived and how that affects the gait.
Clinically, understanding the increased ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion patterns observed in children with ASD may help to develop targeted interventions to improve functional mobility. Additionally, this review highlights the need for further research into the sensory processing issues that may contribute to abnormal gait patterns in ASD.
Gait
Sensory
