Quantitative assessment of neuromotor function in adolescents with high functioning autism and Asperger Syndrome.

Plant et al. (2007) watched teens with high-functioning autism or Asperger move. They tested balance on a wobble board and timed finger taps. All kids had IQ scores in the average range.

The team compared the autism group to teens without autism but with the same IQ.

The autism group wobbled more and tapped slower. Big gaps showed up in dynamic balance and rapid alternating moves. These motor gaps tracked with social withdrawal and autism symptom scores.

In short, motor trouble stayed strong into the teen years and walked hand-in-hand with social trouble.

Fyfe et al. (2007) ran the same teens through the same tests and got the same numbers. This direct replication tells us the motor gaps are real, not a fluke.

Martín-Díaz et al. (2024) widened the age lens and saw the same large balance deficits in both kids and teens. Their 2024 data extend the 2007 teen-only picture down to younger ages.

Martín-Díaz et al. (2026) pooled 34 studies and found low-certainty but steady balance deficits across ASD youth. Their meta-analysis now engulfs the 2007 paper, giving it more weight in the field.

If you work with teens on the spectrum, add a quick balance test to your intake. Tools like the MABC-2 balance beam or a simple single-leg stand take two minutes and flag hidden motor needs. Targeting balance and rapid alternating moves in your plan can ease both motor and social goals.