The use of martial arts as a complementary intervention to physiotherapeutic treatment in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i5.51044Keywords:
Autism Spectrum Disorder, Martial Arts, Physiotherapy.Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterized by alterations in neurological development that affect communication, social interaction, and motor behavior, potentially compromising the child’s overall development. In this context, interventions that combine motor and behavioral stimuli have been investigated as complementary strategies in the rehabilitation process. The objective of this study was to analyze the effects of martial arts as a complementary intervention in the physiotherapeutic treatment of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, considering their impact on motor, behavioral, and social aspects. This was a bibliographic review conducted through a search for original articles indexed in the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, and PEDro databases, published between 2020 and 2025, and selected based on previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analyzed studies indicated that the practice of martial arts may contribute to improvements in postural control, motor coordination, balance, and body awareness, as well as promote behavioral aspects such as attention, social interaction, and self-regulation. Benefits related to the reduction of stereotyped behaviors and increased participation in physical activities were also observed. However, some studies presented methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes and poorly standardized intervention protocols.It is concluded that martial arts can act as a complementary resource in the physiotherapeutic treatment of children with ASD, contributing to motor and psychosocial development. Nevertheless, further research with standardized methodologies and larger samples is needed to strengthen the scientific evidence on this topic.
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