Influence of Rhythm and Interpersonal Relationship on Gait Parameters in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Study Design:

This is a quasi-experimental, cross-sectional study designed to assess the influence of rhythm and interpersonal relationships on gait parameters in children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study involved 30 children, aged 4 to 6, diagnosed with ASD (level I or II), who demonstrated independent walking ability without assistive devices. The children were recruited from Fundación AMÁS, an early intervention center.

Intervention:

The study aimed to analyze the gait of children under three different speed conditions-normal (120 beats per minute), slow (100 beats per minute), and fast (140 beats per minute)-while walking alongside either a familiar adult or a stranger. The intervention involved the following steps:

Preparation: Each child was informed about the walking activity and the adult who would accompany them. They were instructed to walk alongside the adult for a distance of 10 meters.

Walking Conditions:

Walking with a Familiar Adult: Children walked alongside an adult they knew, maintaining the specified rhythm.

Walking with a Stranger: Children walked alongside an unfamiliar adult at the same designated rhythm.

Speed Variation: The rhythm was controlled using a metronome, which only the accompanying adult could hear. The adult was instructed to adjust their walking pace according to the specified rhythm while guiding the child.

Recording and Analysis: The walking sessions were recorded using a camera positioned at a lateral view, ensuring consistent height and distance. The central 2 meters of the 10-meter path were analyzed using Kinovea© software to assess gait parameters.

Outcome Measures:

The study sought to evaluate several dependent variables, including:

Stride Length: The distance covered with each step. Step Time: The duration of each step. Cadence: The number of steps taken per minute. Velocity: The speed of walking measured in meters per second. Joint Amplitudes: The angles at which the hip, knee, and ankle joints moved during each phase of the gait cycle.

Study Population:

The study included children with ASD who attended regular therapy sessions at Fundación AMÁS. Inclusion criteria required children to be between 4 and 6 years old, with a clinical diagnosis of ASD (level I or II), and the ability to walk independently. Exclusion criteria included any associated syndromes or recent lower-limb interventions.

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 4 to 6 years.
• Clinical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (Level I or II).
• Ability to walk independently without the use of assistive devices.
• Parents or legal guardians provide informed consent for participation.

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of other syndromes or developmental disorders.
• History of recent surgical interventions or procedures involving the lower limbs.
• Significant neurological or orthopedic conditions that may affect gait.
• Any contraindications for participation in physical activities as determined by the child's healthcare provider.