My name is Marilyn Baker, and I have horrible allergies. I’m 42 years old and have been suffering from allergies since I was a child. I have seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies plague me year round. When I was young, my parents even moved to a dryer area in the hope of helping me. Over the past eight years, I have done extensive research both through doctors and online. I have managed to come up with some combinations that have helped me a great deal. My allergies aren’t gone, but they have become manageable. I do have to have allergy shots, but I also use some natural remedies. I am happy to be able to share my findings with you here on my blog. I hope you can find some of this of value.
If you believe that your child's lack of coordination goes beyond the usual childhood clumsiness, you may be confused and looking for answers. A common disorder, known as dyspraxia, may be the answer you've been looking for. Below is an overview of dyspraxia including what it is, what its symptoms are, and how a physical therapist can help your child.
What Is Dyspraxia?
Dyspraxia is a common disorder that affects a person's ability to coordinate their muscle movements and can make it difficult to perform certain tasks, such as walking, talking, and writing.
While the cause of dyspraxia isn't all too clear, it's believed to be a brain-based disorder that causes a disconnect between intention and ability. For example, a child with dyspraxia may want to walk in a straight line, but turning that intention into ability is difficult because the brain is not sending the proper signals to the correct muscles. It's common for children with dyspraxia to become frustrated at their lack of coordination and, without a proper diagnosis, your child may blame themselves.
What are the Symptoms?
Children with dyspraxia can be affected in a number of ways, but each affected individual is different and may have more symptoms in one area than another.
For example, some children with dyspraxia will have poor fine motor skills, such as difficulty holding a pencil or using scissors. Other children may be affected only in their gross motor skills, such as difficulty keeping from walking into objects or performing coordinated movements. Some children may be excitable and seem to lack a sense of fear. Other children may have a difficult time playing imaginatively and be sensitive to loud noises or strong movements.
How Can a Physical Therapist Help?
Physical therapy is a therapy used to help your child achieve independence and increase developmental and motor function.
In physical therapy, your child will learn how to adapt to their challenges and rise above them. Physical therapists use a number of techniques to help your child, such as play-based therapy and treatment-focused exercise. Everything your child does during their physical therapy sessions will be beneficial in their long-term outlook. And, not only can a physical therapist help your child during sessions, but by including you in their treatment the therapist can show you things you can do at home to ensure your child continues to improve.
If you suspect your child suffers from dyspraxia, make an appointment with their pediatrician immediately. Contact a group like Hightstown Medical Associates for more information.
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