Physiotherapy at Spectrum Services

Physiotherapists play an important and often overlooked role in supporting Autistic individuals by helping them develop the motor, sensory, and functional movement skills that support independence.

This includes improving balance, coordination, strength, and endurance, and addressing challenges such as low muscle tone that can impact fatigue.

In-Clinic

Home Visits

Gym Based

School Based

Community

Here are some ways physiotherapy can help people with autism:

Gross Motor Skills

Physiotherapists can help build foundational movement skills like running, jumping, and climbing. These abilities are important for play, confidence, and participation in active daily life. Support is always tailored to the individual's comfort, preferences, and goals.
How we can help:
– Developing skills for climbing, jumping, skipping, and running
– Supporting access to play equipment or sports participation
– Creating fun and motivating ways to practise movement
– Building confidence through movement success
Balance and Coordination

Balance and coordination challenges are common in autism and can impact walking, playing, or joining group activities. Physiotherapists use supportive, sensory-friendly approaches to help improve body awareness and confidence in movement.
How we can help:
– Activities to improve balance and reduce clumsiness
– Supporting smoother transitions between movements
– Improving coordination for daily tasks and recreation
– Helping reduce fear or avoidance of physical activities
Core Strength and Postural Control

Many autistic people experience low muscle tone or poor postural stability, which can affect sitting, writing, or endurance. Physiotherapy can help strengthen the core in ways that support attention, comfort, and participation across settings.
How we can help:
– Building strength for sitting upright in school or work
– Improving postural control for less fatigue during the day
– Supporting better motor endurance for physical tasks
– Tailoring exercises to suit sensory preferences and regulation needs
Motor Planning and Sequencing

Some autistic individuals know what they want to do physically, but find it hard to plan and execute movements. This can affect everything from climbing a ladder to learning dance steps or riding a bike. Physiotherapy can help make these steps clearer and more manageable.
How we can help:
– Breaking down multi-step actions into clear, repeatable parts
– Supporting success with bikes, scooters, and other movement tasks
– Using visual supports, modelling, and repetition
– Practising in low-pressure, supportive environments
Sensory-Motor Integration

Autistic people often process movement, touch, and body sensations differently. This can lead to over- or under-responsiveness and difficulties with body awareness. Physiotherapy can help integrate sensory and motor experiences in a way that feels safe and grounding.
How we can help:
– Activities that build tolerance to movement, pressure, or position
– Supporting body awareness to reduce confusion or distress
– Helping the brain and body “sync up” for smoother movement
– Respecting and adapting to sensory needs during sessions
Movement for Sensory Regulation

For many autistic individuals, movement plays a powerful role in calming the nervous system. Physiotherapists can develop movement-based routines that support emotional regulation, reduce overwhelm, and help maintain focus throughout the day.
How we can help:
– Creating personalised movement strategies for self-regulation
– Using jumping, stretching, or resistance activities to release energy or tension
– Helping identify movement needs before dysregulation escalates
– Collaborating with families and support teams to use movement proactively
Functional Mobility and Independence

Autistic individuals may experience challenges with walking, stairs, fatigue, or navigating environments. Physiotherapy can build physical skills that support daily independence and make moving through the world feel easier and safer.
How we can help:
– Supporting walking patterns and stamina
– Helping with safe mobility in public or unfamiliar places
– Managing low tone and fatigue during daily tasks
– Increasing comfort and confidence in moving through varied environments
Adaptive Physical Activities and Fitness

Autistic people deserve access to exercise and physical activities that respect their sensory profile and interests. Physiotherapists can help individuals explore movement in a way that supports wellbeing, reduces isolation, and builds physical confidence.
How we can help:
– Recommending suitable and enjoyable sports or recreation options
– Adapting activities to reduce sensory overload or anxiety
– Supporting participation in group classes, clubs, or community fitness
– Helping establish long-term movement habits for health and joy