ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ ІННОВАЦІЙНИХ МЕТОДІВ ФІЗИЧНОЇ ТЕРАПІЇ ДІТЕЙ З РОЗЛАДАМИ АУТИСТИЧНОГО СПЕКТРА

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions characterised by qualitative features in social interaction and communication. Physical therapy plays an important role in the comprehensive support of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which is aimed at improving their motor skills, coordination, balance, strength and endurance, as well as correcting problems with posture and sensory perception. The aim of the study is to analyse and systematise innovative methods of physical therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders. To achieve the objectives of the study, the scientific literature was analysed and information was systematised using electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, PEDro and others. For children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), it is highly advisable to use innovative approaches in physical therapy, such as virtual reality, exergaming, robotics, sensory integration, and ABA therapy. VR is a technology that creates interactive, computer-generated three-dimensional environments. Exergaming – is a combination of physical exercises and video game elements that creates interactive and entertaining activities that require physical activity to control the gameplay. The use of robotics involves the use of physical robots, especially social assistive robots, in physiotherapy to provide structured and predictable interaction during exercise. Sensory integration is a therapeutic approach aimed at improving the brain's ability to process and integrate sensory information. In physical therapy, SI can include specially designed activities that stimulate different sensory systems (vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, etc.) in a controlled and safe environment. Integration of ABA principles into physical therapy can be especially useful for children with ASD who need clear instructions, visual support and positive reinforcement to successfully master motor skills and maintain engagement in therapy. Mohamed A. Abdel Ghafar and others have shown that the inclusion of virtual reality in rehabilitation helps to improve postural balance in children with autism spectrum disorder. Karin Karo's research shows that by using the FroggyBobby game complex, children reduced aimless limb movements and developed both simple and precise targeted limb movements. A study by Athanasius Kupup showed that robot-assisted interventions significantly improved the social functioning of respondents. Amel E. Abdel Karim and Amira H. Mohammed conducted a study on the effectiveness of a sensory integration programme in children with autism and showed significant improvements in gross and fine motor skills after a six-month programme. Henry Eco Prasetio and others conducted a study on the comparative effectiveness of ABA therapy and brain gymnastics on the development of gross motor skills in children with autism and proved a significant positive impact of ABA therapy on the development of gross motor skills, as opposed to brain gymnastics. Thus, the application of these innovative methods in the physical therapy of children with ASD opens up new opportunities for more effective and personalised interventions that take into account their unique needs and contribute to better functional outcomes and improved quality of life.