Investigation about proposals for rehabilitation of body balance in autism spectrum disorder: integrative literature review

ABSTRACT Purpose The present study aimed to review the national and international literature regarding proposals to rehabilitate/train postural balance in subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and verify the speech therapist’s performance in that area. Research strategy searches were carried out in the VHL, MedLine and Scopus databases using the descriptors autism spectrum disorder, postural balance and rehabilitation. Selection criteria: articles published in national and international journals in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Studies not addressing the subject, that only dealt with the assessment of postural balance, that reported other syndromes and/or sensory impairments associated with ASD and those unavailable for reading were excluded. The investigators evaluated the samples, objectives, instruments/ methods/techniques for assessment and rehabilitation of postural balance, therapeutic guidelines, professionals involved and main results obtained. Results 53 articles were retrieved, 12 being selected for full reading. A variety of rehabilitation/balance training proposals for children and adolescents are identified, based on physical activity approaches and motor exercises. Improvement was observed in all proposed interventions, carried out by Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Physical Educators. Conclusion From the reviewed studies analyzed, it was concluded that, although it is a topic little explored by the scientific community, there is a wide range of feasible proposals for rehabilitation/training of postural balance in subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorder, capable of adaptation and reproduction in Brazilian clinical contexts. Even so, we point out that the research did not include the Speech Therapist in the postural balance assessment process, nor in the rehabilitation/training stage, although their role is necessary for comprehensive care and therapeutic success.