Physiotherapy for Improving Mental Health in Children and Adolescents With ASD and ADHD

International Hellenic University117 enrolled

Overview

This study investigates whether a structured physiotherapy program can help reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ASD and ADHD are neurodevelopmental conditions often associated with emotional and behavioral challenges, including elevated levels of psychological distress. The physiotherapy intervention includes techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, acupressure, relaxation exercises, proprioceptive activities, and therapeutic positions designed to support emotional regulation. Children aged 6-18 years are randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving the physiotherapy program or a control group receiving usual care. The purpose of the study is to evaluate whether this physiotherapy protocol can positively influence emotional well-being and behavioral indicators related to ASD and ADHD. Outcomes are assessed using validated questionnaires measuring stress, anxiety, depression, and disorder-related behavioral characteristics before and after the intervention.

This study examines the implementation of a structured physiotherapy program designed for children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The intervention includes breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, proprioceptive activities, and therapeutic postures aimed at supporting emotional regulation and reducing psychological distress. Participants aged 6 to 18 years are randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving the physiotherapy program or a control group receiving usual care. Standardized assessment tools are used to measure stress, anxiety, depression, and behavioral characteristics related to ASD and ADHD. The study follows a parallel-group randomized design and aims to evaluate the feasibility and potential therapeutic impact of physiotherapy-based approaches in this population.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

Interventions

Structured Physiotherapy ProgramBEHAVIORAL

A structured multimodal physiotherapy program including sensorimotor integration exercises, balance and coordination training, postural control activities, therapeutic physical activity, breathing regulation techniques, and proprioceptive stimulation. The intervention is tailored to children and adolescents with ASD or ADHD and aims to improve emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, enhance behavioral self-control, and promote overall mental health.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 6 YearsMax age: 18 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by a qualified clinician. * Age between 6 and 18 years. * Ability to participate in structured physiotherapy sessions. * Stable medication regimen (if applicable) for at least 4 weeks prior to study entry. * Parent/guardian consent and child assent (where applicable). * Ability of parents/guardians to comply with study procedures and assessments. Exclusion Criteria: * Severe intellectual disability that prevents participation in physiotherapy activities. * Uncontrolled epilepsy or other neurological disorders that pose safety risks. * Severe sensory or motor impairments preventing safe exercise participation. * Participation in another clinical study within the last 3 months. * Any acute medical condition deemed unsafe for physical activity. * Behavioral issues that prevent structured participation (e.g., aggressive behavior).

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Change in Stress Levels (DASS-21 Stress Subscale)

Stress levels assessed using the DASS-21 Stress Subscale (score range 0-42). Higher scores indicate higher stress. The outcome will be analyzed as the change in score from baseline to post-intervention.