Definition

Motor developmental disorder, commonly referred to as dyspraxia, is a condition that originates within the brain and affects the development of both fine and gross motor skills. It impacts motor planning, coordination, and execution. While some individuals with dyspraxia may also experience cognitive or intellectual challenges, it is important to note that dyspraxia is not inherently linked to a person’s level of intelligence.

Children diagnosed with dyspraxia may display developmental delays and exhibit immature behavior. They often struggle with making and following through with plans, have difficulty with speech, and may appear clumsy, slow, or uncoordinated. This combination of symptoms has led to the term “clumsy child syndrome.” In adults, the symptoms of dyspraxia may manifest as learning difficulties, lower self-esteem, and challenges in daily functioning.

Dyspraxia affects approximately 5-6% of the child population and about 10% of the general population. Although there is no cure for this lifelong condition, various management strategies such as occupational therapy and speech therapy have proven effective in helping individuals cope with and manage dyspraxia.

It’s important to understand that dyspraxia is distinct from intellectual disabilities. Many individuals with dyspraxia have average or above-average intelligence despite the motor challenges they face.

Causes

The precise cause of dyspraxia is not fully understood. However, research from Queen Mary University of London suggests that the condition is linked to variations in the development of neurons in the brain. These variations disrupt the brain’s ability to send signals properly throughout the body, making it difficult for individuals with dyspraxia to plan and execute coordinated movements effectively.

Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of dyspraxia is still unknown, several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing the condition, including:

• Premature birth (babies born before 37 weeks of gestation).

• Low birth weight.

• A family history of dyspraxia may increase the risk.

• Boys are three to four times more likely to be diagnosed with dyspraxia than girls.

• Substance use during pregnancy.

Symptoms

If your child has dyspraxia, you may notice developmental delays in motor skills such as holding their head up, rolling over, or sitting. While some children with dyspraxia may meet early developmental milestones at the expected age, other symptoms may become more apparent. These symptoms can include:

• Unusual body shape or posture

• Increased irritability and frequent tantrums

• Sensitivity to sound or certain stimuli

• Feeding and sleeping disorders

• Difficulty with fine motor skills, which can impact activities such as writing, solving puzzles, and creating artwork

• Coordination issues, making physical activities like jumping or catching a ball challenging

• Disordered eating and drinking habits

• Reluctance to engage in physical activity, leading to lower physical fitness levels

As the child grows, delays may also be noticed in activities like crawling, walking, dressing independently, feeding themselves, and mastering toilet training.

In adults, dyspraxia can present with a range of symptoms that may evolve over time. These can include:

• Abnormal posture or body alignment

• Balance and movement issues, such as walking with an abnormal gait

• Poor hand-eye coordination

• Frequent fatigue

• Challenges with learning new tasks

• Struggles with organizing and planning activities

• Difficulty with writing or using a keyboard

• Problems with household tasks and personal self-care

• Low self-esteem or feelings of inadequacy

It’s essential to note that dyspraxia does not affect a person’s intelligence. In fact, individuals with dyspraxia often excel in areas such as creativity and motivation, showing strengths that help them thrive in various aspects of life despite their motor challenges.

Diagnosis

The severity of symptoms in children with dyspraxia can vary, and each child may experience different manifestations of the disorder. Initially, your child may not show noticeable impairments in the development of motor skills. As a result, the diagnosis of dyspraxia might not be made until the child reaches 5 years of age or older.

It is important to note that if your child frequently bumps into objects, drops things, or struggles with physical coordination, this does not automatically mean they have dyspraxia. These behaviors might be indicative of other conditions or may not indicate any underlying disorder at all.

The doctor will evaluate the child’s medical history, as well as their fine and gross motor development, milestones, and cognitive abilities. In the case of dyspraxia, the diagnosis is typically based on the following signs:

• The child’s motor skills are significantly slower than what is typical for their age.

• The lack of motor skills has a persistent negative impact on the child’s daily activities.

• The symptoms emerge early in the child’s development.

• Other conditions that could have similar symptoms are ruled out.

In Indonesia, the diagnosis will be based on the criteria outlined in the PPDGJ 3, which provides a structured framework for identifying developmental disorders.

Management

In some children, symptoms may improve or resolve naturally as they get older, but this is not always the case. For most children, the symptoms of dyspraxia tend to persist throughout their lives.

While there is no cure for dyspraxia, individuals with the condition can learn to manage their symptoms effectively and improve their abilities through appropriate therapy. With the right support, they can live fulfilling lives.

Because the symptoms of dyspraxia vary widely from one person to another, treatment must be personalized to meet each individual’s specific needs. The treatment plan will depend on several factors, including the severity of the symptoms and the individual’s living environment.

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist for more tailored treatment options. Therapy will help improve the child’s abilities, self-confidence, and social interactions. For adults, therapy focuses on developing motor skills and organizational abilities, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychotherapy can be used to modify thought patterns, build self-esteem, and encourage positive habits.

Even for those with physical challenges, daily physical exercise is still vital for overall health and well-being.

Complications

While dyspraxia does not affect a person’s intelligence, it can create significant challenges in both learning and socialization. Children with dyspraxia often experience difficulty focusing on challenging tasks, following instructions, remembering what they’ve learned, and staying organized. They may also struggle with acquiring new skills, leading to low self-esteem and immature behavior. Additionally, forming new friendships can be difficult for children with dyspraxia.

In adults, the effects of dyspraxia can lead to a lack of independence in daily activities and a diminished sense of self-worth. These individuals may also face social stigma, leading to bullying or exclusion due to their condition.

Prevention

Preventing dyspraxia is not entirely possible, but pregnant women are strongly encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid substances like alcohol and illegal drugs. The use of these substances, particularly by expectant mothers, can contribute to developmental issues in their unborn children, including dyspraxia.

When to See a Doctor?

If you notice any of the symptoms associated with dyspraxia and have concerns about your child’s development, it’s essential to consult with a doctor. A thorough evaluation can help identify whether dyspraxia or another condition may be affecting your child’s motor and cognitive development.

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