Dyspraxia

Description

Dyspraxia refers to difficulties with coordinated movement in which messages from the brain are not effectively transmitted to the body.  It can result from acute damage to the brain (as might be caused by a head injury or stroke) or be a part of a dementing disorder that develops gradually later in life. Dyspraxia may also be a developmental disorder of the brain, mostly affecting males. There are a number of variations of this disorder that can lead to difficulties in performing single or multi-level motor tasks such as catching a ball or holding a pencil or getting dressed.

Verbal dyspraxia is a form in which the individual has difficulties in performing the mouth/tongue movements necessary to form sounds, leading to problems with speech.

Treatment

Intervention by physiotherapists, occupational therapists and/or speech therapists that is tailored to the person’s specific areas of difficulty may be helpful.

Prognosis

The outlook for people with dyspraxia depends on the severity of the disorder, its cause and the availability of early intervention. People with dyspraxia may be able to learn the skills necessary to circumvent their difficulties and  lead normal, productive lives.

Further Information and Support

Click here for the latest Australian research papers on Dyspraxia.

The Communication Disorders Treatment and Research Clinic

The University of Sydney, East St, Lidcombe NSW 2141 Australia

PO Box 170, Lidcombe NSW 1825

Tel (02) 9351 9539   Fax (02) 9351 9163

Email: cdtrc@cchs.usyd.edu.au
sydney.edu.au/health_sciences/speech_pathology/clinic/index.shtml

Information

The Dyspraxia Foundation – UK
http://www.dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk/

The National Center for Learning Disabilities
http://www.ncld.org/

The Dyspraxia Support Group – NZ
http://www.dyspraxia.org.nz/

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Reviewed by Dr Laurie Miller, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient / site visitor and his / her existing health care professionals.