Higher Intraindividual Gait Variability in Autistic Toddlers: A Pilot Study

This pilot study compared spatiotemporal gait parameters in 12 autistic toddlers versus 9 typically developing peers (18-30 months), finding increased gait variability and less consistent motor control in the ASD group across stride length, step length, stance time, and stride time. The authors conclude that objective gait assessment is feasible in toddlers with autism and suggest larger studies are needed to explore neurological mechanisms and potential early intervention benefits.