Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice ›› 2024, Vol. 30 ›› Issue (10): 1133-1139.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-9771.2024.10.003

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Effect of physical activity on sleep function in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review

YANG Tongnian1, REN Jie1(), XIAO Hui2, FAN Xiaoyan3   

  1. 1. School of Athletic Performance, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
    2. School of Physical Education and Health, Jiangxi Science and Technology Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330038, China
    3. Nanchang Institute of Technology, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330044, China
  • Received:2024-09-06 Published:2024-10-25 Online:2024-11-08
  • Contact: REN Jie, E-mail: renjie@sus.edu.cn
  • Supported by:
    National Social Science Fund of China Late Project(23FTYA006);China Disabled Persons' Federation Project(2023CDPFAT-29)

Abstract:

Objective To systematically evaluate the effect of physical activity on sleep function in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods A systematic review was conducted by searching relevant literature in CNKI, Wanfang data, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus databases, ranging from inception to August, 2024.

Results A total of eight randomized controlled trials were included, originating from China, Germany, Turkey and the United States, involving 311 participants, and were published in journals related to psychology, medicine and sports science. The participants were aged between four and twelve years, and the primary health conditions included inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity and combined types. The scores of PEDro scale of the included studies ranged from five to eight, indicating overall study quality as moderate to good. The types of interventions mainly included physical education programs, adaptive physical activities and exercise rehabilitation. The duration of the interventions was 30 to 60 minutes per session, one to three times per week, over a period of two to twelve weeks, with moderate to high intensity. Physical activity could improve sleep quality, shorten sleep latency and enhance sleep efficiency in children with ADHD and ASD. Regular participation in physical education or group sports activities improved children's sleep quality and efficiency, and also enhanced social skills and emotional regulation. Adaptive physical activities effectively improved sleep behaviors in children with ASD and helped regulate emotions and alleviate anxiety. Exercise rehabilitation improved sleep quality and reduced nighttime awakenings in children with ADHD.

Conclusion Physical activity can improve sleep quality, enhance sleep efficiency, shorten sleep latency and improve the overall quality of life in children with ADHD and ASD.

Key words: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, children, physical activity, sleep function, systematic review

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