ABSTRACT

Objective: This study reviewed and meta-analyzed the effects of sensory integration–based interventions on motor function in children with developmental delays and disabilities. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, four databases (KISS, RISS, PubMed, CINAHL) were searched for RCTs (2010-2024) involving children with developmental delay, ASD, CP, or ADHD. Twelve studies were included. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool. A random-effects model estimated effect sizes (Hedges’ g), heterogeneity (I2), and publication bias.Results: The overall pooled effect size was moderate to large (g = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.73-1.01, p < 0.001, I2 = 37.60%). Subgroup analyses showed effects in gross motor (g = 0.92) and total motor outcomes (g = 0.83). By diagnosis, the largest effects were observed in developmental delay (g = 1.42) and cerebral palsy (g = 1.27). In addition, more consistent effects were observed when intervention duration was ≥ 5 weeks and session time was ≥ 60 minutes. No publication bias was detected.Conclusion: Sensory integration–based interventions improve motor function, particularly gross and total motor outcomes. However, caution is needed when generalizing findings due to limited studies and heterogeneous assessment tools. Future research should use standardized assessments in well-designed RCTs.