Understanding Dysgraphia and Dyspraxia: Chronic
Neurological Disorder
A chronic neurological disorder is a diverse group of illnesses that affect the brain, spinal cord,
and nerves throughout the body. These disorders can profoundly impact a person's ability to
perform daily activities, affecting their movements, senses, and cognitive abilities. Today, we will
discuss and understand the two neurological disorders, which are Dysgraphica and Dyspraxia.
This blog aims to provide a clear differentiation of the two neurological disorders, their common
symptoms, causes, and the advancements in treatment options.
What is Dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by difficulty in writing, primarily
handwriting, but also coherence. It is not merely a delay in the development of writing skills but
a persistent challenge that can affect an individual's academic performance and self-esteem.
People with dysgraphia may exhibit irregular, inconsistent letter formations and might struggle
with basic spelling and the physical act of writing. This condition often exists alongside other
learning difficulties, such as dyslexia and ADHD.
What are the Common Symptoms of Dysgraphia?
The symptoms of dysgraphia can vary but generally include:
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Difficulty with spelling
Challenges with writing-related activities and coherence
Cramping or discomfort in the hands during writing
Slow writing speed
Poor or inconsistent handwriting
Individuals with dysgraphia might also have a strong verbal skill set, which starkly
contrasts with their writing abilities. This discrepancy can be particularly frustrating and
confusing for students, parents, and educators alike.
What is Dyspraxia?
Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is another chronic
neurological developmental disorder that affects fine motor skills development. It impairs the
planning and coordination of movements, which can affect a broad range of physical activities,
from simple motor tasks like waving goodbye to more complex tasks like sequencing
movements in sports.
What Symptoms Does a Person with Dyspraxia Develop?
Dyspraxia symptoms include:
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Poor balance and coordination
Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing or using small objects
Challenges with time management and related tasks
Learning difficulties in new routines
Social and emotional problems
Children and adults with dyspraxia may also struggle with tasks that require a sequence
of movements, and they may appear clumsy or "out of sync" with their environment.
Possible Causes of Dysgraphia and Dyspraxia Disorders
Dysgraphia and dyspraxia are complex neurological disorders that can significantly impact
writing and motor skills, respectively. Understanding the causes of these disorders is crucial for
diagnosis and management. Here are some of the potential causes and contributing factors for
each:
Notable Causes of Dysgraphia
Dysgraphia is primarily associated with difficulties in written expression, such as handwriting,
and its exact cause is not always clear, but several factors are thought to contribute:
Neurological Development
Dysgraphia is often linked to how the brain develops and processes information. It may involve
difficulties with fine motor skills, information processing, and memory.
Genetic Factors
There may be a hereditary component to dysgraphia, as it sometimes runs in families. This
suggests that genetic factors could predispose individuals to learning difficulties including
dysgraphia.
Brain Injury
Injuries to certain parts of the brain, especially those that affect language and fine motor skills,
can lead to symptoms of dysgraphia.
What are the Major Causes of Dyspraxia?
Dyspraxia, or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), affects physical coordination and
can make daily activities challenging. Its causes are similarly multifaceted:
Developmental Differences
Dyspraxia can result from differences in the way the brain develops. Specifically, it is associated
with disruptions in the way messages from the brain are transmitted to the body.
Genetic Links
Like dysgraphia, dyspraxia may have a genetic component, as it appears to be more common in
families with a history of the disorder.
Premature Birth
There is evidence suggesting that premature birth or low birth weight can be associated with a
higher risk of developing dyspraxia.
Learning and Attention Disorders
Dyspraxia is often seen alongside conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, and speech and
language disorders, indicating that these issues may share common developmental pathways.
Discussing the Diagnosis and Management of Chronic Neurological
Disorder
Diagnosis of dysgraphia and dyspraxia chronic neurological disorder conditions typically
involves a combination of physical examinations, reviews of medical and family history,
academic assessments, and observations by educators and psychologists. Since these
conditions can overlap with other disorders, a thorough evaluation is critical to distinguish them
and to rule out other causes.
Below, we will explore the common approaches to the diagnosis and management of chronic
neurological disorders.
Diagnosis of Chronic Neurological Disorders
The diagnosis of chronic neurological disorders typically involves a comprehensive evaluation
that includes the following steps:
Medical History
Gathering a detailed medical history is crucial. Doctors will ask about symptoms, their onset,
how they've progressed, and family history of neurological disorders.
Neurological Examination
A neurological exam may assess cognitive functions, fine motor skills, sensory skills, nerve
function, handwriting, hearing and speech, vision, balance, and coordination.
Diagnostic Tests
Depending on the symptoms and the suspected disorder, various diagnostic tests can be
employed:
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Blood Tests: To check for infections, genetic markers, or biochemical imbalances.
Imaging Tests: MRI, CT scans, and PET scans are used to visualize abnormalities in
the brain and spinal cord.
Electrodiagnostic Tests: These include electroencephalogram (EEG) for measuring
electrical activity in the brain and electromyography (EMG) for assessing the electrical
activity of muscles.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): To collect and examine cerebrospinal fluid to diagnose
conditions like multiple sclerosis and infections.
Genetic Testing: This is particularly useful when a genetic cause is suspected, such as
with Huntington's disease or familial Alzheimer's.
Management of Chronic Neurological Disorders
Management strategies for chronic neurological disorders vary widely depending on the specific
condition, its severity, and the overall health of the individual. Common approaches include:
Rehabilitation Therapies
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are essential for maintaining
independence and quality of life. These therapies help manage symptoms, improve functional
abilities, and provide adaptive strategies.
Surgical Treatments
For certain conditions like some cases of epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, or brain tumors, surgery
may be necessary to remove tumors, implant devices to stimulate brain activity or reduce
symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes
Dietary modifications, exercise, and cognitive therapies can help manage symptoms or slow
disease progression in disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
Supportive Care
As many neurological disorders can impact mental health, supportive care, including
psychological counseling and support groups, is vital for managing emotional and psychological
challenges.
Emerging Therapies
Research into gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and new pharmacological treatments offers hope
for better management options in the future.
How Remedial Education Helps Children With Learning Difficulties?
Remedial Education plays a crucial role in supporting children with learning disorders by
providing targeted interventions designed to address specific educational challenges. This
specialized approach involves assessing the individual needs of each student and tailoring
instruction to help them overcome their unique barriers to learning.
By breaking down complex concepts into more manageable parts, remedial education helps
children with learning difficulties. Additionally, it helps them progress at their own pace and build
confidence in their abilities. Also, remedial programs often include strategies to enhance focus,
organization, and study skills, which are vital for academic success.
Contact Reflect Within..!
Dysgraphia and dyspraxia are two different and complex chronic neurological disorders that
present significant challenges to those affected. However, with the right support and
interventions, individuals with these conditions can lead successful and fulfilling lives.
Recognizing the signs early and seeking professional guidance are crucial steps in managing
these disorders effectively. If you also wish to book a session with professionals, contact Reflect
Within at +91 8928467288