Avaliação da relação entre a equoterapia e os distúrbios de integração sensorial em crianças com o transtorno do espectro autista

Abstract

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a Global Developmental Disorder, particularized by deficits in language, delay and differences in neuropsychomotor development, difficulties in imagination and socialization and changes in sensory processing. Among the forms of treatment for autism, hippotherapy has stood out. The sample consisted of 11 participants, caregivers of children with autism who attend Association Aquarela. Participants underwent an interview where 3 evaluative questionnaires were applied: general questionnaire, Sensory Profile 2 (Winnie Dunn) for sensory evaluation and Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) in the evaluation of the severity degree. It was observed that the mothers' average perception of improvement in the variables static, dynamic balance, gait safety, motor coordination, gait dexterity, gait speed, communication, stereotypes, self-mutilation, food and independence was higher in patients who underwent hippotherapy. Still, it is possible to affirm that the children analyzed also presented deficits in sensory processing, and in the sensory processing exploration, more difference was noted. It was also noted that the predominance is male, with a degree of mild / moderate autism.