JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT) is widely used to reduce anxiety in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but evidence of its efficacy is limited.

Objective:

To design a usable, non-stigmatizing compressive armchair which can be easily controlled, electronically, by the user.

Methods:

We used a user-centered design to assess the usability of the device. We tested the device in a Day Hospital for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in France with a convenience sample of 39 children with severe forms of autism spectrum disorder and intellectual deficiency. The compression armchair has four different cells which can be inflated to induce tailored pressure on the body. The pressure level is recorded electronically. We used Witteman design guideline. We measured System Usability Scale and time of use.

Results:

The design was user centered. Usability was between good and excellent. The device was used by 39 children, for 3 to 20 minutes with one or two sessions each week, for 31 months in the center. The armchair takes up less space than the hug machine. Performing sessions with the chair is feasible.

Conclusions:

This device opens perspective for controlled evaluation of deep pressure therapy to treat anxiety in ASD. First clinical impressions show a decrease of anxiety, a better emotional and attention regulation. Deep pressure therapy is widely used in occupational therapy and frequently requested by parents, but efficacy studies are too scarce to make evidence-based recommendations for its use.