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Dyspraxia

Also called Developmental coordination disorder or DCD

Dyspraxia, also known as developmental coordination disorder, is a condition that affects movement and coordination. Children with dyspraxia may seem clumsy and find it harder to learn skills such as dressing, writing, riding a bike or catching a ball. It does not affect intelligence, and it often continues into adulthood.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

It often occurs alongside ADHD, dyslexia or autism.

There is no cure, but occupational therapy and physiotherapy can help people develop skills and find practical ways around difficulties. Adjustments at school and work make a big difference.

Common signs

  • Clumsiness and bumping into things
  • Difficulty with handwriting, buttons or using cutlery
  • Late reaching milestones such as crawling, walking or riding a bike
  • Difficulty with sports and ball games
  • Difficulty with organisation and planning

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Assessment by a paediatrician, occupational therapist or physiotherapist
  • Standardised movement tests
  • Ruling out other conditions

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Assessment reports
  • Therapy plans and progress notes
  • School or workplace adjustment plans

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Which therapies would help most?
  • What support can school or work provide?
  • Should we look at other conditions such as ADHD or dyslexia?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • There are no emergency signs specific to dyspraxia; a sudden loss of skills or new weakness needs urgent medical review

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

ADHD in childrenA condition affecting attention, activity and impulse control, usually noticed before age 12. Support at home and school makes a big difference.AutismA lifelong difference in how a person communicates, experiences the world and interacts with others. It is not an illness.DyslexiaA common, lifelong learning difficulty that mainly affects reading, writing and spelling. It does not affect intelligence.