Autistic Clients and the Value of Touch Therapy

The nervous system is formed from the same layer of embryonic tissue as skin. As such, excessive sensitivity to light touch is one of the most common symptoms of nervous system immaturity. The self-affliction of vigorous physical stimuli (such as striking one’s head against a wall) while avoiding tactile interactions with others (a light touch may cause the child to scream in pain) is typical of autism. Since light touch is over-stimulating to those with autism, deeper massage techniques and joint compression are better tolerated. Utilizing methods of sustained moderate pressure such as Swedish Massage and Neuromuscular Therapy, can help dampen the nervous system’s over-reactivity.