PROPRIOCEPTIVE MODULATION DYSFUNCTION IN CHILDREN WITH ASPERGER SYNDROME

Background: Sensory modulation is the capacity to regulate and organize the degree, intensity, and nature of responses to sensory input in a graded and adaptive manner, so that an optimal range of performance and adaptation to... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Sensory modulation is the capacity to regulate and organize the degree, intensity, and nature of responses to sensory input in a graded and adaptive manner, so that an optimal range of performance and adaptation to challenges can be maintained (McIntosh et al. 1999a, Lane et al. 2000). Difficulties in processing proprioceptive information may interfere with body awareness and motor development.
Method:
Case control transversal study, matched by age and sex, including 50 children with Asperger Syndrome (AS) and 50 typically developing children, aged 5-10 years. Sensory Profile (Dunn, 1999) was used as assessment tool, focusing on proprioceptive processing outcomes.
Results:
Significant differences were found in the following items: "moves stiffly" χ2 = 47.266, P <0.001; "tires easily, especially when standing or holding particular body position" χ2 = 26.223, P <0.001; "locks joints for stability" χ2 = 28.418, P <0.001; "seems to have weak muscles" χ2 = 24.505, P <0.001; "has a weak grasp" χ2 = 34.222, P <0.001; "can’t lift heavy objects" χ2 = 23.574, P <0.001; "props to support self" χ2 = 31.337, P <0.001; "poor endurance/tires easily" χ2 = 30.301, P <0.001; "appears lethargic" χ2 = 36.600, P <0.001.
Conclusion:
As far as no organic causes may be identified, proprioceptive information processing might be the cause of motor clumsiness, muscular weakness and poor coordination.
Application to practice:
Better knowledge of proprioceptive needs in AS children may help occupational therapists address interventions leading to participation in social and leisure activities.