Effects of Exergaming on Bimanual Hand Dexterity in Autistic Children

A study showed that a structured traditional physical activity intervention that targets specific MS resulted in motor function improvement in children with ASD along with exergaming that can improve EF in children with ASD.

On a population of 20 patients with CP, Structured Neurodevelopmental Therapy-based hand rehabilitation (SNDTBHR) was applied and in the results Positive effects of both interventions i.e. SNDTBHR and LMBET were found. Significant differences were found between LMBET and SNDTBHR on GGF, pinch forces, JHFT, and WCST all being in the favor of LMBET. Exergaming interventions in the individuals with ASD showed significant improvements in the physical fitness, executive functioning, and their self perception. Exergaming increased the interest and participation of Autistic children in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. In contrast, exergaming had small impact on emotional regulation As per the results of another study participants with poorer dexterity in the beginning of exergaming training program greatly improved their dexterity performance, which also improved their quality of life. Adherence and motivation increased significantly and system usability of the exergaming was acceptable. Participants with impaired dexterity showed improvement in the Nine-Hole Peg Test and the PDQ-39

According the researchers knowledge there have been numerous studies conducted on the effect of different exercise protocols on autistic children but there is lack of evidence in determining the effect of exergaming on specifically hand functioning/ dexterity in autistic population'. More studies should be done in order to check if exergaming or conventional treatment differ in their effect on hand dexterity in autistic children. Home based exergaming and low cost video assisted games for dexterity need more in depth study so that they can be readily used by general public.