Dyspraxia (developmental co-ordination disorder) in adults
Overview
Dyspraxia, also known as developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), is a common disorder that affects movement and co-ordination.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dyspraxia can vary between individuals and may change over time. You may find routine tasks difficult. If you have dyspraxia it may affect: your co-ordination, balance and movementhow you learn new skills, think, and remember information at work and homeyour daily living skills, such as dressing or preparing mealsyour ability to write, type, draw and grasp small objectshow you function in social situationshow you deal with your emotionstime management, planning and personal organisation skills Dyspraxia should not be confused with other disorders affecting movement, such ascerebral palsyandstroke. It can affect people of all intellectual abilities.
Causes
It's not known what causes dyspraxia. You may be at a higher risk of developing it if you were born prematurely. Dyspraxia is more common in men and often runs in families.
Treatment
There is no cure for dyspraxia but there are therapies that can help with daily living, such as: occupational therapy– to help you find practical ways to remain independent and manage everyday tasks such as writing or preparing foodcognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)– a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave It may also help if you: keep fit– you may find regular exercise helps with co-ordination, reduces feelings of fatigue and prevents you gaining weightlearn how to use a computer or laptop if writing by hand is difficultuse a calendar, diary or app to improve your organisationlearn how to talk positively about your challenges and how you've overcome themget support from programmes such asAccess to Workfrom Jobcentre Plus
When to see a doctor
See a GP if you think you may have undiagnosed dyspraxia or problems with your co-ordination. It's a good idea to keep a diary of your symptoms. The GP may refer you to aphysiotherapistor anoccupational therapistfor tests. They'll assess your movements and how your symptoms are affecting you before making a diagnosis. If you have dyspraxia, you may also have other conditions, such as: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)dyslexiaautism spectrum disorderdifficulty learning or understanding maths (dyscalculia)depressionoranxiety