Effects of Taekwondo intervention on postural control in youth with autism spectrum disorder

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have underdeveloped postural control compared to typically developing children (Minshew, Sung, Jones, & Furma, 2004). Poor postural control may inhibit children with ASD from acquiring more advanced motor skills or even sport-specific skills, possibly limiting opportunities for engaging in physical activity. Taekwondo (TKD), a form of Korean martial arts, has been shown to improve balance in typically developing children and children with other forms of neurological disability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of TKD training on postural control in youth with ASD. Methods: Fourteen youth with ASD (aged 8 to 14 years) participated in this study. Eight youth with ASD completed TKD training twice per week for 8 weeks (50min per session). Six children with ASD received no intervention as controls. Postural control was evaluated using the NeuroCom Balance Master, including the double leg stance, the single leg stance, and the step-quick-turn tests. Pediatric Balance Scale was used to measure functional balance performance. For statistical analysis, mixed model ANOVA was used for between-group comparison. A paired t-test used for within-group comparison. Results: TKD group showed significant improvement with decrease of postural sway in the right leg with eyes closed condition (p=.046) while postural sway of control group did not change. There was a statistical main effect for both groups in within-group comparison. Separating the two groups to find the main contributor, the TKD group showed significant decrease of postural sway in single leg stance (left leg with eyes open condition) after 8-week intervention (p=.014). The control group showed no significant difference before and after the intervention. Conclusions: Postural control for youth with ASD improved following 8-week TKD training. TKD may provide an effective and enjoyable therapeutic option. This study outcome will aid clinicians, rehabilitators, and researchers, when developing a therapeutic intervention for youth with ASD.