Survey of Child Neurologists Highlights a Missed Opportunity for Identifying and Treating Motor Impairments in Autism

Abstract

Background

Motor impairments, such as motor delays, atypical gait, dyspraxia, and poor coordination, are highly prevalent among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Motor impairments are detrimental to multiple aspects of development but are often underdiagnosed and undertreated in children and adolescents with ASD. Child neurologists are specialists who provide clinical care for autistic patients across the lifespan. However, little is known about how child neurologists understand, diagnose, and treat motor impairments in children with ASD.

Methods

In this preliminary study, we surveyed child neurologists (N = 100) on their knowledge of and clinical practices addressing motor impairments in pediatric patients with ASD. Our survey also sought to identify potential barriers to care and medical education efforts that may mitigate existing gaps.

Results

We found most child neurologists were not confident that motor impairments were an associated feature of ASD, do not frequently evaluate for motor impairments, lack sufficient tools for motor evaluations with autistic children, face multiple barriers to providing interventions, and do not receive adequate clinical training regarding this topic.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest that substantial gaps in awareness about motor impairments in ASD persist among practicing child neurologists. Though child neurologists are trained to assess motor function, our results highlight a missed opportunity in the setting of ASD. Child neurologists would benefit from greater attention and resources to learn, evaluate, and treat motor impairments as part of holistic patient care for individuals with ASD.