Effect of External Sensory Integration on Motor Functional Disorder In Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (Adhd) - A Pilot Study

Chhavi Kumar Sharma; Shahiduz Zafar

doi:10.15391/prrht.2025-10(2).09

Authors

Chhavi Kumar Sharma Department of Physiotherapy, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0762-9990
Shahiduz Zafar Department of Physiotherapy, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2764-7755

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15391/prrht.2025-10(2).09

Keywords:

ADHD, sensory integration therapy, motor function

Abstract

Purpose. A common neurodevelopmental disease in children, attention deficit hyperactivity disease (ADHD) is typified by recurrent patterns of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. In India, ADHD affects a significant percentage of school-aged children, with variations across different regions. This study investigates the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy combined with conventional physiotherapy compared to conventional physiotherapy alone in treating motor functional disorders in children with ADHD.

Material & Methods. 34 children with ADHD, ages 3 to 12, participated in this experimental pilot trial. They were randomized to two groups: the experimental group, which received both conventional physiotherapy and sensory integration treatment, and the control group, which received conventional physiotherapy. The interventions were administered over six months, with assessments conducted at baseline and post-intervention using Conner’s Teacher Rating Scale, Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), and the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire.

Results. The findings revealed that the experimental group showed a significantly greater reduction in ADHD symptoms and a more substantial improvement in motor function compared to the control group. Specifically, the experimental group demonstrated a greater decrease in Conner’s Teacher Rating Scale scores (p=0.002) and a significant improvement in GMFM scores (p=0.001). Additionally, the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire scores indicated a more pronounced enhancement in motor coordination within the experimental group (p=0.01).

Conclusions. This study provides evidence supporting the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy, combined with conventional physiotherapy, in improving motor function and reducing ADHD symptoms in children. These findings suggest that integrating sensory-based interventions into treatment regimens could enhance therapeutic outcomes for children with ADHD in India.

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