Developmental co-ordination disorder

Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD), sometimes called Dyspraxia or clumsy child syndrome, is hen a person's motor skills are impaired, resulting in movement and co-ordination difficulties. It is thought to be caused by insufficient neurone (nerve cell) development in the brain, so that information from sensory perception such as vision, hearing, speech and balance is not processed properly.

As a result, the person finds it hard to learn motor skills, and his or her movements are often slow and hesitant. They may also have problems with language, writing and organising their thoughts. Attention span and memory is often poor. Although not curable, with appropriate treatment, children often improve dramatically. The physiotherapists will asses their particular difficulties before planning a treatment programme. This may include exercises to strengthen weak muscles and games to improve motor skills. For example, weight bearing exercises can help to increase muscle control in the shoulders so improving co-ordination, while tactile (touch) activities can help to increase sensory awareness of arms, hands and fingers

Dyspraxia Foundation
8 West Alley
Hitchin
Herts
SG5 1EG

Tel: 01462 455 016
Fax: 01462 455 052
Helpline: 01462 454 986
Dyspraxia Foundation website

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