Sensory-Motor Integration for Sensory Processing and Balance in ASD

NCT ID: NCT06922422

Last Updated: 2025-04-10

Basic Information

• Recruitment Status: COMPLETED
• Clinical Phase: NA
• Total Enrollment: 16 participants
• Study Classification: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Start Date: 2024-03-13
• Study Completion Date: 2024-12-15

Brief Summary

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a 16-week structured sensory-motor integration exercise program compared to conventional therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis and massage therapy) in improving sensory processing abilities and balance in children aged 6-12 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Outcomes are measured using the Short Sensory Profile and Berg Balance Scale at baseline and after 16 weeks of intervention. Findings aim to demonstrate the clinical utility of sensory-motor integration exercises in enhancing functional outcomes for children with ASD.

Detailed Description

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder often experience significant sensory processing issues and motor coordination challenges, particularly balance deficits. This study evaluates a sensory-motor integration intervention aimed at improving sensory modulation and motor abilities. Participants aged 6 to 12 years are randomized into two groups: an intervention group participating in structured sensory-motor exercises (64 sessions, 4 times weekly, 45 minutes per session), and a control group receiving conventional therapy (primarily Applied Behavior Analysis and massage therapy). Outcomes are assessed using standardized measures: the Short Sensory Profile (SSP) for sensory processing and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for balance, at baseline and immediately following the intervention period.

Conditions

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Study Design

• Allocation Method: RANDOMIZED
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Primary Study Purpose: SUPPORTIVE_CARE
• Blinding Strategy: DOUBLE

Study Groups

Intervention group

Participants received structured sensory-motor integration exercises, consisting of sensory play activities tailored to enhance sensory processing and balance. Sessions lasted 45 minutes each, conducted 4 times weekly for 16 weeks (64 total sessions).

Group Type: EXPERIMENTAL

Sensory-Motor Integration Exercises

Intervention Type: BEHAVIORAL

A structured sensory-motor integration program based on sensory play activities designed to enhance sensory processing and balance. Each session lasted 45 minutes, conducted four times per week, for a total of 64 sessions over 16 weeks. Activities targeted multiple sensory modalities, including tactile, proprioceptive, and vestibular inputs.

Control group

Participants received conventional therapy including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and massage therapy, conducted for 45 minutes per session, 4 times weekly, for 16 weeks (64 total sessions). These sessions did not include sensory-specific interventions.

Group Type: ACTIVE_COMPARATOR

Conventional therapy group

Intervention Type: BEHAVIORAL

Conventional therapy sessions consisting of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and massage therapy without specific sensory-motor integration activities. Each session lasted 45 minutes, conducted four times weekly, for a total of 64 sessions over 16 weeks.

Interventions

Sensory-Motor Integration Exercises

A structured sensory-motor integration program based on sensory play activities designed to enhance sensory processing and balance. Each session lasted 45 minutes, conducted four times per week, for a total of 64 sessions over 16 weeks. Activities targeted multiple sensory modalities, including tactile, proprioceptive, and vestibular inputs.

Intervention Type: BEHAVIORAL

Conventional therapy group

Conventional therapy sessions consisting of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and massage therapy without specific sensory-motor integration activities. Each session lasted 45 minutes, conducted four times weekly, for a total of 64 sessions over 16 weeks.

Intervention Type: BEHAVIORAL

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

• Age 6-12 years
• Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (DSM-5 criteria)
• Mild-to-moderate ASD severity (CARS score ≤ 39.5)
• Ability to participate in structured sessions

Exclusion Criteria

• Significant physical impairments or medical conditions affecting participation
• Recent (within 6 months) participation in sensory integration therapy

• Minimum Eligible Age: 6 Years
• Maximum Eligible Age: 12 Years
• Eligible Sex: ALL
• Accepts Healthy Volunteers: No

Sponsors

King Saud University

OTHER

Sponsor Role: collaborator

Taif University

OTHER

Sponsor Role: collaborator

Assiut University

OTHER

Sponsor Role: lead

Responsible Party

Mohamed Aly

Dr.

Responsibility Role: PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR

Locations

Faculty of Sport Sciences, Assiut University

Asyut, Asyut Governorate, Egypt

Countries

Egypt

Other Identifiers

EgyCTR102024002

Identifier Type: -

Identifier Source: org_study_id