The Use Of Therapy Swings In Managing Autism

By Doris Rivas


Autism is a condition that is mostly associated with children of around three years of age. The condition affects the ability of the children to socialize and communicate effectively. There is no known treatment for this condition. Different methods are used to help manage it. . Therapy swings have been used to help improve on coordination for the affected children.

Medical practitioners have so far failed to identify the specific causes of autism. They only suspect that it may be caused by genetic factors or complications arising during the birth of a child. Parents are therefore advised to pay more attention to their children and to report any unusual behaviors in their children. Such include the inability to coordinate body movements by around the age of sixteen weeks. Other vital signs may be low concentration levels at around the same age.

Even though the condition cannot be treated, there are different ways through which the condition can be managed. The children can be taken to special schools with well-trained handlers and unique facilities to help in their growth. Such facilities include the swings. These are said to offer some form of correctional aspects in developing some skill for the affected children. The movement of the pendulum swings is believed to offer some form of remedy.

Different this swing is available in the market in different models. Each swing works in different ways and with different effects. The net swing for example gives the body a relaxed feeling. The best part is that the net presses against the body of the child when he is seated in the swing, thus, providing a simple yet effective massage therapy. The kneading effect relaxes the muscles and nerves. The cuddling of the net also gives the child a sense of security.

The platform swing is characterized a long plank on which the child can sit on, stand or even lie down. Every position taken varies the speed at which the swing sways. Experts believe that the varied types of movement increase body awareness in autistic children. This type of therapy is mostly used in the stimulation of vestibular systems.

Autism also affects the development of the upper body in children. The children in this case fail to develop a normal posture. The solution for this condition lies in using the bolster swing, which also helps in developing strong arms. This is because the child has to hold on to the swing suspensions as it sways. Visual development is also said to be stimulated by the bolster swing.

Another pendulum swing has been designed to give strength to the body. Commonly known as the full body support swing, the child is seated comfortably then strapped on the chair. The swinging effect gives the child a feel of relaxation and security. The skills developed from using this seat swing include control of emotions and increased body coordination capabilities. This model is also available for older children and teenagers.

Generally, innovations in research have continued to provide specialized ways for caring for autistic children. The therapy swings have provided an opportunity to engage the children in play while at the same time developing them physically and psychologically.




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