RE-MODULATING SENSORIMOTOR INTEGRATION IN AUTISM: EVIDENCE FROM A HALLIWICK-BASED HYDROKINETIC INTERVENTION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67034/2786-8354.2026.20.2.07Keywords:
autism spectrum disorder, sensorimotor integration, aquatic therapy, Halliwick concept, hydrokinetic rehabilitation, pediatric neurorehabilitationAbstract
Introduction. Sensorimotor dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a core and functionally significant component of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting motor control, sensory regulation, emotional stability, and adaptive participation. Aquatic interventions offer a unique multisensory environment that may facilitate sensorimotor re-organization, yet evidence remains heterogeneous and often lacks a clearly defined therapeutic framework. The purpose of this study was to examine whether a structured Halliwick-based hydrokinetic intervention can re-modulate sensorimotor integration in children with ASD.
Materials and Methods. A quantitative pre-post interventional design was employed. Five children with clinically diagnosed ASD aged 5-8 years participated in a four-week Halliwick-based hydrokinetic therapy program conducted twice weekly in a controlled aquatic environment. The intervention followed the Ten-Point Halliwick Program and was individually adapted to each child’s functional and sensory profile. Sensorimotor integration was assessed before and after the intervention using a parent-reported questionnaire informed by established sensory processing frameworks. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to examine individual and group-level changes.
Results. All participants completed the intervention with full adherence and no adverse events. At the individual level, all children demonstrated positive pre-post changes in overall sensorimotor scores, with improvements ranging from +0.75 to +2.00 points on a five-point scale. Children with lower baseline functioning exhibited the largest absolute gains. At the group level, mean sensorimotor scores increased from 3.47 to 4.73, corresponding to a mean improvement of +1.26 points. Consistent improvements were observed across multiple domains, including balance and postural control, gross motor coordination, sensory hypersensitivity, water tolerance, emotional regulation, and task engagement. Therapist observations supported these findings, documenting improved movement quality, reduced avoidance behaviors, enhanced confidence, and increased independence in the aquatic environment. The convergence of quantitative and observational data suggests multidimensional functional gains rather than isolated motor skill acquisition.
Conclusions. A structured Halliwick-based hydrokinetic intervention was associated with consistent improvements in sensorimotor integration indicators in children with ASD. These findings support the potential of theoretically grounded aquatic therapy to facilitate sensorimotor re-modulation and adaptive functioning. Larger controlled studies are warranted to confirm these preliminary results.
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