Dyspraxia

Did You Know Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Therapeutic Exercise Can Help a Child with Dyspraxia Find Relief?

Dyspraxia is a type of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) that affects fine and gross motor skills of children. Without treatment, many symptoms of this disorder could even follow them into adulthood. 

Fortunately, with the help of our integrated care team at Fitness for Health, we can help manage your child’s dyspraxia so they can live as comfortably and independently as possible.

How do I know if my child is living with dyspraxia?

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if your child is indeed living with dyspraxia or some other types of developmental disorder. In fact, according to the Dyspraxia Foundation, “Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is distinct from other motor disorders such as cerebral palsy and stroke, and occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. Individuals may vary in how their difficulties present: these may change over time depending on environmental demands and life experiences.”

Because there is such a broad range of what symptoms may look like, it is important to understand the most common ways this disorder presents itself in children. These include, but are not limited to:

● Difficulties with self-care

● Difficulty writing

● Difficulty typing

● Difficulty riding a bike and/or playing

● Difficulties with educational and recreational activities

● Difficulty learning new skills in school and at home, such as crafts or chores

In addition to these common areas of difficulty, it is also possible for dyspraxia to affect speech,  articulation, memory, thought, perception, and processing. This can make it difficult for a child to plan, organize, and problem-solve.

It is common that coordination issues may cause several problems with participating. In and functioning through the daily activities of life. As a result, this may lead to negative impacts in the social, emotional, and academic areas of the child’s life.  

Fortunately, our integrated care team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and integrated movement specialists can help.

How can I help my child find relief?

As a final, cohesive description of dyspraxia, the Dyspraxia Foundation states, “Dyspraxia affects a person’s ability to perform movements in a smooth, coordinated way.”. Because of this, it is important that a child be exposed to an integrated care team such as our own at an early age. Through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and integrated movement therapy, we will help your child to improve their various motor functions so they can live their life with confidence and independence.

Ready to start therapy with Fitness for Health? Contact us today!