Ancient qigong technique tested for autism: could massage ease sensory struggles?

NCT ID NCT06893679

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Riphah International University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a daily routine of gentle massage and deep breathing, called qigong sensory training, could help children with autism who have trouble processing sensory information. Twenty-six children aged 4 to 12 received 15-minute sessions twice a day, five days a week, for eight weeks. Researchers measured changes in sensory responses and behavior before and after the program.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: qigong sensory training (massage and deep breathing)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, non-drug way to help children with autism manage sensory sensitivities and improve behavior.
What could go wrong: This is a very small study (26 participants) with no control group, so results may not be reliable or apply to all children with autism. The intervention is time-intensive (twice daily for 8 weeks).

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for AUTISM are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism autism spectrum disorder Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AUTISM

Contacts and locations

Locations

Nishtar Medical University, Multan

Multan Khurd, Punjab Province, 60000, Pakistan

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.