Sensory Integration for Autism Spectrum Disorder with Pediatrics

Summary

PopulationPediatrics
ConditionAutism Spectrum Disorder
InterventionSensory Integration
VariablesCognition, Function, Behavioral
MeasuresGRADE system
EvidenceRed – Stop
MethodsSystematic Review
  • Green evidence (Go) –  high-quality evidence indicating effectiveness.
  • Yellow evidence (Caution/Measure) – insufficient evidence exists.
  • Red evidence (Stop) – high-quality evidence indicating ineffectiveness.

Keywords

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Key Findings

The current evidence-base does not support the use of Sensory Integration Theory (SIT) in the education and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The evidence for the SI approach for ASD was found to have serious methodological flaws.

References

Lang, R., O’Reilly, M., Healy, O., Rispoli, M., Lydon, H., Streusand, W., … & Giesbers, S. (2012). Sensory integration therapy for autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 6(3), 1004-1018.

Novak, I., & Honan, I. (2019). Effectiveness of paediatric occupational therapy for children with disabilities: A systematic review. Australian occupational therapy journal, 66(3), 258-273.

Disclaimer:

Before implementing any new intervention with a client, occupational therapy practitioners should be aware of the potential benefits, risks, and harms of the intervention. Occupational therapy practitioners should exercise professional reasoning based on the client’s particular strengths and limitations before providing any intervention. Professional reasoning and judgment is also required when choosing which intervention protocols are feasible for their clients.

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