Beyond the Pool: From Aquatic Motor Competence to Functional Participation in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Narrative Review

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is frequently accompanied by motor impairments that may restrict physical activity, participation, social interaction, and quality of life. Aquatic physiotherapy provides a distinctive therapeutic environment in which buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, viscosity, and reduced weight bearing can facilitate postural control, movement practice, motor learning, and water orientation. However, improvements in aquatic performance may not necessarily translate into meaningful functional outcomes beyond the pool.

Autism spectrum disorder; aquatic physiotherapy; hydrotherapy; aquatic motor competence

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