Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts behaviour, communication, socializing, and even the way people move and walk. Individuals with autism may exhibit differences in their gait, which is now recognized as a supporting diagnostic feature in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
Some noticeable gait differences among autistic people include toe-walking, in-toeing, and out-toeing. Research has also shown that autistic individuals may walk more slowly, take wider steps, spend longer in the stance phase, and take more time to complete each step. There is also a greater variability in the length and speed of strides among autistic individuals.
These gait differences are largely attributed to differences in brain development, particularly in the basal ganglia and cerebellum. The basal ganglia are responsible for sequencing movement and shifting posture, while the cerebellum uses visual and proprioceptive information to adjust and time movements for postural stability.
While some researchers initially suggested that autistic gait may be due to delayed development, it is now known that these differences persist across the lifespan and may become more pronounced with age. Factors such as broader motor, language, and cognitive capabilities also contribute to gait differences among autistic individuals.
Managing gait differences in autism involves taking an individualized and goals-based approach. Not all differences require treatment unless they significantly impact daily life. Support for gait differences may be necessary if there is an increased risk of falls, difficulty participating in physical activities, or physical consequences such as muscle tightness or pain.
Community-based interventions, such as sports or dance programs, have shown to improve movement abilities in autistic children. These interventions empower children to have agency in how they move, rather than seeing their differences as a problem to be fixed.
While there is still ongoing research to better understand individual variability in autistic gait, physical activity has been shown to enhance social skills and behavioral regulation in preschool children with autism. Governments are also moving towards more community-based supports for autistic children and their peers, outside of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
In conclusion, understanding and supporting gait differences in autism is essential for improving the quality of life for individuals with autism. By providing individualized support and promoting physical activity, we can help autistic individuals navigate the world with confidence and autonomy.
