Why do children with autism walk in such a unique way? What kind of support is effective?

People with autism may show differences in the way they walk, and observations of how they walk are sometimes used to assist in the diagnosis of autism. Professor Nicole Reinhart and others who study neurodevelopmental disorders at Monash University explain the relationship between autism and how people walk.

Why do some autistic people walk differently?
https://theconversation.com/why-do-some-autistic-people-walk-differently-231685

According to Professor Reinhart, people with autism often walk in the following way:
Tiptoe walking: Walking on the balls of your feet.
- Inward-turned gait: Walking with one or both feet turned inward.
External rotation gait: walking with one or both feet turned outward.

Furthermore, previous research has revealed the following characteristics:
・Walk very slowly.
・Walk with big strides.
Your feet are off the ground for a long time.
・Each step takes time.

The gait style characteristic of autism is influenced by the brain's basal ganglia and cerebellum . The basal ganglia are responsible for processing the 'sequencing of movements,' including changes in posture, and are closely related to the realization of smooth walking. The cerebellum processes visual information and information on the body's position and movement to determine the timing of movements, and is involved in postural stability. Problems with these functions result in awkward walking.

In addition, the way people walk is influenced not only by the brain but also by factors such as motor ability, language ability, and cognitive ability, and there are differences in the way people with autism walk.

According to Professor Reinhart, even if a person has a unique walking style, if it does not affect their ability to participate in daily life, they do not need assistance. On the other hand, appropriate assistance is required if they have the following problems:
- Increased risk of falls or frequency of falls.
-Having difficulty participating in physical activities you enjoy.
-Tension in the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
-Physical effects such as leg and back pain.

The support is varied, but it is not necessary to have treatment in a hospital. For example, the 'Joy of Moving Program' developed by Professor Reinhart allows children to develop motor skills by moving with their peers in the classroom. This type of support method is suitable for children who spend a lot of time at school. In addition, research involving Professor Reinhart has shown that participation in group activities such as sports and dance may improve the motor skills of children with autism.

Joy of moving program in Australia - Psychological Sciences
https://www.monash.edu/medicine/psych/research/neurodevelopment/allplay-child-and-family-program/joy-of-moving-program-in-australia

Professor Reinhart says he will continue his research and explore ways to support children according to their developmental stage.