Dyspraxia Symptoms & Signs

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a neurological disorder that affects motor coordination and can impact daily activities and learning.

Common symptoms include poor balance, difficulty with motor tasks, poor hand-eye coordination, sensitivity to sensory input, difficulty with organisation and time management, and challenges with speech or articulation.

Dyspraxia can be diagnosed at any age, but it is often identified in early childhood when motor skills typically develop. Diagnosis can continue into adolescence and adulthood as well.

Diagnosis typically involves assessments by healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and educational psychologists evaluating motor skills, coordination, and developmental history.

While dyspraxia itself is not a learning disability, it can co-occur with learning disabilities. It primarily affects motor coordination but can also impact learning due to difficulties in physical tasks.

The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve abnormalities in the development of neurons in the brain responsible for motor coordination.

There is no cure for dyspraxia, but with therapy and support, individuals can manage symptoms and develop skills to improve their daily functioning.

Therapies can include occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and educational support to help develop coordination, communication, and organisational skills.

Adults with dyspraxia may experience challenges with organisation, time management, driving, and tasks requiring fine motor skills. Many continue to benefit from strategies and accommodations to manage symptoms.

Exercises to improve balance, coordination, and motor skills can be beneficial. Occupational therapists often design personalised exercise plans to address specific needs.

There is no specific diet to treat dyspraxia, but a healthy, balanced diet can support overall well-being and brain function. Some report improvement with specific nutritional approaches, but evidence is limited.

Accommodations may include extra time for tasks, the use of technology for writing, a quiet space for work, and tailored physical education (PE) activities.

Dyspraxia is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls, though it can affect individuals of any gender.

Parents can support by understanding the condition, collaborating with therapists and educators, providing a structured and supportive environment, and encouraging involvement in activities that build motor skills.

Yes, individuals with dyspraxia may experience anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression due to the challenges they face. Support from mental health professionals can be beneficial.