MASSAGE AND AUTISM SPECTRUM: THE EFFECT OF THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE ON PSYCHOMOTOR DEVELOPMENT IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Keywords:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), therapeutic massage, psychomotor development, sensory integration, rehabilitation, complementary therapy, children’s health.Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behavioral patterns. Children with ASD often experience delays and dysfunctions in psychomotor development, which can affect their daily functioning and quality of life. In recent years, complementary and alternative interventions such as therapeutic massage have been increasingly studied as supportive methods to improve motor, sensory, and emotional regulation in autistic children. This article explores the role of therapeutic massage in enhancing psychomotor development among children with ASD, focusing on its physiological mechanisms, clinical benefits, and integration into multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.
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