How Can Physical Therapy Be Beneficial for Students with Autism? 

Physical therapy, also called physiotherapy, can make a meaningful difference for autistic students by helping them improve movement, balance, and body awareness. According to Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (2024), children’s physiotherapists work alongside teachers and families to develop personalised exercise and movement plans. These are often integrated into Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to build confidence, independence, and classroom participation. 

Understanding the Role of Physiotherapy in Autism 

Many children with autism experience differences in motor coordination, muscle tone, and sensory processing that can affect their ability to participate in physical play or school activities. The National Autistic Society (2022) notes that physiotherapists support autistic pupils by addressing movement, posture, and balance challenges while improving body awareness and motor planning. 

Guidance from NICE (2023) recommends early physiotherapy referrals for children showing motor delays, including those with autism. These interventions help strengthen coordination, posture, and muscle control essential for developing practical skills such as running, climbing, and handwriting. 

In line with this, the Department for Education’s (2024) evidence review confirms that physiotherapists form part of multidisciplinary education teams. They advise on classroom adaptations, design movement goals, and train school staff to support inclusion and participation for pupils with physical or sensory needs. 

How Physical Therapy Supports Learning and Wellbeing 

Physical therapy in autism is not just about movement it’s about enabling engagement and reducing anxiety. The Autistica (2020) guidance highlights that structured physical routines and sensory activities can lower stress, support emotional regulation, and improve focus during lessons. 

The WHO International Classification of Functioning (2025) also recognises motor and sensory integration as key factors in educational and social participation. By addressing these functional domains, physiotherapy promotes independence and smoother transitions between tasks and environments both at school and at home. 

Recent research provides compelling evidence for this approach. A 2025 PubMed study by Mithbaokar et al. reported that six-week school-based physiotherapy interventions significantly improved coordination, posture, and self-regulation in children with autism. Similarly, a 2024 systematic review in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that physical therapy and motor-based exercise programmes enhance postural control, sensory integration, and social engagement particularly when delivered consistently within school environments. 

Practical Applications in Education 

In schools, physiotherapists collaborate closely with special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs), teachers, and families to develop movement-based strategies that fit naturally into daily routines. Typical interventions might include: 

• Gross motor activities, such as obstacle courses or balance games, to build coordination. 

• Sensory-motor exercises to help regulate energy levels and focus. 

• Environmental adaptations, such as flexible seating or movement breaks, to support posture and concentration. 

• Functional movement coaching to improve handwriting, dressing, and playground skills. 

The Harrogate and District NHS physiotherapy service (2024) notes that these supports are most effective when included directly within EHCP targets and reviewed regularly with families and educators. 

Physiotherapy also plays a preventive role. By addressing movement difficulties early, therapists help reduce frustration, improve peer interaction, and prevent secondary physical issues like poor posture or fatigue challenges that can otherwise limit participation. 

Integrating Physical Therapy into EHCPs and IEPs 

The integration of physiotherapy goals into education plans is now standard practice within UK SEND frameworks. Under the SEND Code of Practice, physiotherapists are key contributors to EHCP planning and reviews. They identify needs, set measurable goals, and ensure that physical interventions align with educational priorities. 

Physiotherapy input might be part of a wider multidisciplinary programme, including speech and occupational therapy, to address the holistic needs of the child. This collaborative approach reflects guidance from NICE (2023), which emphasises integrated care and early coordination between health and education services. 

The Broader Benefits for Autistic Students 

Physical therapy benefits extend beyond the classroom. Improved strength, balance, and coordination can enhance self-esteem, participation in sports, and independence in everyday routines. The National Autistic Society (2022) notes that many autistic children experience a boost in confidence when motor tasks become easier, helping them interact more comfortably with peers. 

This growing body of evidence supports a simple truth: movement is connection. Whether through structured physiotherapy sessions, play-based exercises, or adaptive physical education, physical therapy gives autistic students the tools to navigate their world with greater ease and self-assurance. 

Takeaway 

Physical therapy helps autistic students move with confidence, focus, and independence. When embedded in educational plans, physiotherapy doesn’t just improve motor skills it opens pathways to participation, wellbeing, and inclusion. 

If you or someone you support would benefit from early identification or structured autism guidance, visit Autism Detect, a UK-based platform offering professional assessment tools and evidence-informed support for autistic individuals and families.