Markus Ernst
Truning Point Medical Group, USA
Title: Multi-sensory integration combined with cognitive performance as a therapeutic treatment approach in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Biography:
Abstract:
Statement of the Problem: Sensory integration is one of the most utilized therapeutic interventions in ASD. Problems effectively integrating multi-sensory input can limit, amongst others, a child’s ability to develop social relationships, cognitive motor skills, planning and sequencing novel tasks and attending to tasks. New technologies for testing and therapy like multi-axle rotational devices and cognitive motor training platforms give new opportunities in multi-sensory integration and cognitive performance, however, a lack of consensus exists regarding its evidence base.
Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The results of multiple systematic reviews indicate that sensory integration intervention meets the criteria for an evidenceâ€based practice according to the CEC Standards for Evidenceâ€Based Practices for ASD. Case studies using high-frequent videonystagmography (VNG) and computerized posturography (CPG) for testing of peripheral sensory systems and central sensory integration, and treatment interventions with multi-axle rotational devices and motor training platforms were utilized and focused on outcome measurements with VNG and CPG.
Findings: Children in these case studies showed significant changes in social behaviors, cognitive motor performance and attending to tasks. Objective measurements through VNG and CPG reflect changes in central sensory processing.
Conclusion & Significance: Children with autism ASD will benefit from multi-sensory integration combined with cognitive performance. However, further clinical studies with these new treatment interventions (multi-axle rotational devices and cognitive motor training platforms) need to be done to prove benefits compared to conventional sensory integration therapies.