The effects of sensory integration technique on equilibrium processes in children after prenatal exposure to alcohol

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background:The objective of the study was evaluation of sensory integration therapy
effectiveness in children after prenatal exposure to alcohol, on the example of equilibrium
processes. Material and methods: The study was conducted in 2012 at the Centre of
Advanced Physiotherapy in Kielce, and covered a group of 20 children aged 4-5 who had a
history of prenatal exposure to alcohol. The children systematically participated in a one-hour
SI therapy session, once a week for the period of 6 months. Results: While evaluating the
equilibrium system, 5 trials with clinical observations were performed according to Ayres: the
Schilder test, dynamic and static balance, gravitational uncertainty, and postrotary nystagmus.
The high effectiveness of SI therapy was confirmed in children subjected to prenatal alcohol
exposure based on the example of the equilibrium system. The positive effects of therapy
were proved for all the tests applied: the Schilder test (p<0.001), dynamic balance (p<0.001),
static balance (p<0.001), gravitational insecurity (p<0.001), and postrotary nystagmus
(p<0.05). Conclusions: The sensory integration technique exerts a beneficial effect on the
balance functions of children after prenatal exposure to alcohol.