Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Severe form of a broader group of pervasive developmental disorders

What is the prevalence of ASD in the United States?

1 in 59 children

When age is standardized screening?

Done at 18 and 24 months of age

What are etiologies of ASD?

Gut inadequacy, allergy, yeast and pathologic bacterial overgrowth, inability of the metallothionin system, frequent antibiotic use, vaccines

What are ASD deficits?

Social interaction, communication skills, behavior, repeated body movements, unusual responses to people, attachment to objects, resistance to change in routine, sensory sensitivities

What is autistic disorder?

Impairments in social interaction, communication, and imaginative play apparent before age 3

What is asperger’s disorder?

Impairments in social interaction and presence of restricted interests and activities, average to above average intelligence, least severe of the spectrum

What is pervasive developmental disorder (PDD-NOS)

Used when a child does not meet the criteria for a specific diagnosis but there is severe and pervasive impairment in specific behaviors, often referred to as atypical autism

What is rett’s disorder?

Progressive disorder which almost exclusively occurs in females, loss of purposeful use of hands, which is replaced by repetitive hand movements, characterized by head growth deceleration and loss of previously acquired skills between 5-48 months

What is childhood disintegrative disorder?

Normal growth and development prior to manifesting social interaction, then significant loss of previously acquired skills in language, social skills, adaptive behavior, bowel or bladder control, play, or motor skills before the age of 10

What are different treatment methodolgies?

Heal the gut, provide nutrient absorption, remove allergens, improve social interaction, improve focusing

What are some nutrition recommendation?

Removal of mercury, supplements, eliminate inflammation pro diet

How can hydrotherapy be used?

Hot and cold towels on the trunk and abdomen clams down the vagus nerve and gut, epson salt baths are calming and relax muscle tension

What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?

Balance autonomic nervous system, pressure and temperature change help

How can craniosacral therapy help?

Allows for relaxation, helps improve behavior, regulates the autonomic nervous system