Vestibular System Function in Autism

Among the many traits associated with autism, those related to spatial orientation and coordination stand somewhat apart. They don’t typically alter behavior and are often invisible to others, yet they can significantly impact quality of life.

Balance, coordination, and perception of movement are regulated by the vestibular system, which often functions differently in autistic individuals due to sensory processing differences. The disruptions in its activity manifest individually and in various forms.

Vestibular Hyperresponsiveness
In cases of hypersensitivity, individuals may experience:
• Discomfort or sensory overload during movement, especially unstable types like swinging or spinning, often accompanied by anxiety or nausea
• Heightened reactions to body position changes—bending and turning may cause disorientation
• Difficulties with swings, merry-go-rounds, escalators, and climbing or descending stairs
• Avoidance of physical activity that requires balance
• Dizziness or disorientation even from mild vestibular input

Vestibular Hyporesponsiveness
In contrast, hyposensitivity may appear as:
• A constant need for movement—spinning, jumping, or rocking to seek the necessary sensory feedback
• A lack of reaction to falling or bumping into things. Decreased risk awareness leads to recklessness in balance-dependent situations, such as climbing
• Sensory-seeking behavior, like an obsession with swinging or riding elevators without purpose

Mixed Sensory Modulation Issues
When sensory modulation is disrupted, signs of both hyper- and hyposensitivity can appear. Individuals may struggle to adapt to changes in movement, experiencing fatigue or overexcitement quickly, and have difficulties with fine motor planning—like tying shoelaces.

Emotional and Behavioral Aspects
An autistic child may experience anxiety in places full of noise and motion—like playgrounds—which can become a source of stress. To calm themselves and maintain focus, some use repetitive behaviors such as rocking or spinning, showing stereotypical patterns of action.

Motor Coordination and Balance Challenges
Poor coordination and balance in autism often result in clumsy movements and frequent falls, especially when walking on uneven ground. Delayed motor skill development may be expressed as reluctance or inability to run, climb, ride a bike, or engage in activities requiring coordination and balance.

Support Through Sensory Integration
Sensory integration is a therapeutic approach used by occupational therapists to help the brain improve how it processes sensory signals. For young children, it’s best introduced through play using swings, balance boards, and soft tunnels. Since many autistic individuals avoid physical activity due to fear of falling, suitable alternatives include yoga, swimming, dance, and adaptive physical education. Creating a predictable sensory environment can also play a vital role by reducing anxiety and enhancing motor control.

These measures are certainly beneficial—they improve vestibular function and, through play, help develop communication and social skills. However, such approaches do not have a therapeutic effect and cannot eliminate the root causes of the various impairments.

A Breakthrough Approach: Cell Therapy for Autism

In contrast, autism and its symptoms can be addressed much more effectively and rapidly through innovative cell therapy. This natural method involves transplanting a patient’s own stem cells, eliminating the risk of rejection and activating the body’s self-healing abilities. Stem cells can transform into various types and replace damaged ones with healthy equivalents.

This process leads to normalization of brain and nervous system function, stabilization of behavior, and a reduction or complete disappearance of autism symptoms. The results often last for a long time—sometimes for life—enhancing the impact of complementary therapies.

This technology, developed relatively recently, has been highly praised and widely recognized. It is now used by leading clinics worldwide, including the Mardaleishvili Medical Center, which employs top-level specialists with extensive experience in stem cell transplantation. The center is equipped with cutting-edge technology that ensures the most positive therapeutic outcomes. Treatment standards match those of internationally recognized institutions, yet the costs remain lower than in many other countries with advanced healthcare systems. An added advantage is the center’s support throughout all preparatory stages, including travel planning and accommodation during rehabilitation.

Cell therapy is a chance to overcome autism and its symptoms!