Assessing the Efficacy of the Global Integration Method (Método de Integração Global - MIG) on Motor and Functional Improvements in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial - Report - MDSpire

Assessing the Efficacy of the Global Integration Method (Método de Integração Global - MIG) on Motor and Functional Improvements in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

  • By

  • Thalita Karla Flores Cruz

  • Reinaldo da Costa Paulino Netto

  • Fabiana Rachel Martins Costa

  • Elisa Braz Cota

  • Amanda Aparecida Alves Cunha Nascimento

  • Simone Rosa Barreto

  • Deisiane Oliveira Souto

  • April 22, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Efficacy of the Global Integration Method in Children with ASD

Overview

This report outlines a randomized controlled trial aimed at evaluating the Global Integration Method (MIG) for improving motor skills and functional outcomes in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study compares MIG with conventional interventions and assesses its impact on balance, sociocommunicative skills, and motor performance.

Background

Motor impairments are prevalent in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and can significantly affect their functional independence and quality of life. Despite the high incidence of these impairments, motor-based interventions are often underrepresented in clinical trials. The Global Integration Method (MIG) offers a novel, interdisciplinary approach that emphasizes the importance of motor function in the development of communication and social skills.

Data Highlights

This study will involve 66 children with ASD, aged 6 to 12 years, randomized into three groups: MIG program, conventional psychological intervention, and conventional motor physiotherapy. Assessments will occur at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and three months after completion.

Key Findings

  • The MIG program is designed to improve fundamental motor skills and functional goal attainment in children with ASD.
  • Motor impairments in ASD are often underrecognized, leading to delays in accessing appropriate interventions.
  • Approximately 88% of children with ASD are at high risk for motor impairment, yet only a small percentage receive physiotherapy.
  • The study will utilize linear mixed-effects models for data analysis, adhering to the intention-to-treat principle.
  • Ethical approval has been obtained, ensuring informed consent and assent from participants.

Clinical Implications

The findings from this trial may provide evidence for the efficacy of the MIG program as a viable intervention for improving motor and functional skills in children with ASD. This could lead to enhanced clinical practices and better support for children with motor impairments.

Conclusion

The MIG program represents a promising approach to address motor impairments in children with ASD, potentially improving their overall functional outcomes. Further research is needed to validate its effectiveness compared to conventional therapies.

References

  1. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Exploring the Efficacy of Low-Frequency Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Sensory and Behavioral Improvements in Pediatric Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Study
  2. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2025 -- Enhanced Cognitive Abilities and Sleep Quality in Preteens with High-Functioning Autism After Engaging in a Structured Exercise Program
  3. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2025 -- Implementation and evaluation of family-based interventions within the Germany-wide Children of Mentally Ill Parents-network: study protocol for three prospective, rater-blinded, cluster-randomized controlled multicenter trials
  4. BMC Psychiatry, 2026 -- The Unseen Impacts of Screen Time: Changes in Brain Network Efficiency in Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
  5. JAMA Pediatrics, 2025 -- Prevalence of Motor Milestone Delays in Autistic Children
  6. NICE, 2025 -- September 2025 exceptional surveillance of autism spectrum disorder in adults: diagnosis and management (NICE guideline CG142)
  7. PubMed -- The impact of exercise interventions on core symptoms of 3-12-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
  8. Prevalence of Motor Milestone Delays in Autistic Children | Autism Spectrum Disorders | JAMA Pediatrics | JAMA Network
  9. September 2025 exceptional surveillance of autism spectrum disorder in adults: diagnosis and management (NICE guideline CG142) | Autism spectrum disorder in adults: diagnosis and management | Guidance | NICE
  10. The impact of exercise interventions on core symptoms of 3-12-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis - PubMed

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