Applied Evidence

Sports: An underutilized tool for patients with disabilities

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References

During the physical exam, limit sensory stimuli as much as possible, including lights and sounds. Verbalize components of the exam before touching a patient with autism who is sensitive to physical touch.

Which exercise? Participation in sports is an effective therapy for autism and can help patients develop communication skills and promote socialization. Vigorous exercise is associated with a reduction in stereotypic behaviors, hyperactivity, aggression, and self-injury.3 Sports also can offer an alternative channel for social interaction. Children with autism may have impaired or delayed motor skills, and exercise can improve motor skill proficiency.4

The prevalence of feeding problems in children with autism spectrum disorder is estimated to be as high as 90%, and close to 70% are selective eaters.31,35,36 For those with gastrointestinal disorders, exercise can exert positive effects on the microbiome-gut-brain axis.37 Additionally, patients with autism are much more likely to be overweight or obese.32 Physical activity offers those with autism health benefits similar to those for the general population.32

Children with autism spectrum disorder have similar odds of injury, including serious injury, relative to population controls.38 Karate and swimming are among the most researched sports therapy options for patients with autism.38-40 Both are shown to improve motor ability and reduce communication deficits.

Summing up

The literature, although limited, demonstrates that exercise and sports improve the health and well-being of people with IDDs throughout the lifespan, especially if childhood exercise/­sports involvement is maintained.

Exercise participation increases based on the individual’s desire to be fit and active, skills practice, peer involvement, family support, accessible facilities, and skilled staff.

Encourage your patients to participate in sports, but be aware of factors that can limit (or facilitate) participation.41 Exercise participation increases based on, among other things, the individual’s desire to be fit and active, skills practice, peer involvement, family support, accessible facilities, and skilled staff.10

Additional resources that can help people with IDDs access sports and recreational activities include the Special Olympics; Paralympics; YMCA; after-school programs; The American College of Sports Medicine; The National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability; and disability-certified inclusive fitness trainers.

CORRESPONDENCE
Kristina Jones, BS, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612; kjones15@usf.edu

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