Clumsiness and Sensory Systems

Dyspraxia: A Misunderstood Condition

What if being clumsy isn’t just a motor issue but also a disguised sensory disorder? It is essential not to force a child to color within the lines if they haven't yet integrated the perception of their own body. In this article, we will explore what is often overlooked behind the term dyspraxia. This term can seem daunting and reductive.

Often, it is said that a child is clumsy or that they struggle to organize themselves in space. But the fundamental question is: have we provided them with the right neurological foundations for success? In working with children who have coordination disorders, I have found that these children do not always exhibit a motor deficit. In reality, they often suffer from sensory overload or activation issues within their sensory systems.

Manifestations of Dyspraxia

A dyspraxic child knows what they want to do, but their body does not follow through. For example, they may want to cut something, but the paper slips. When they try to write, their hand tightens, making their letters poorly formed. This leads to quick fatigue and difficulties with simple tasks like packing their bag or going down stairs.

This constant struggle between intention and execution can lead to a loss of confidence. The child avoids activities that require precision and often becomes perceived as disorganized, distracted, or even oppositional. In reality, they are continuously compensating, which is an important red flag.

The Numbers Behind Dyspraxia

According to the Dyspraxia Foundation in the UK, 6 to 10% of children have developmental coordination disorders. In France, the figures vary, but a clear trend is emerging: more and more children are labeled as dyspraxic without thorough investigation.

In the last three years, we have tested over 400 children, and 87% of them had at least three active primitive reflexes. The most common is the asymmetrical tonic neck reflex, which disrupts coordination. Other reflexes, such as those from the spine, prevent the child from remaining stable while sitting.

Causes and Solutions

The gap between motor intention and execution stems from a deficit in reliable sensory input. Imagine wanting to drive a car with a shaky steering wheel and blurry mirrors. This forces you to slow down and compensate, much like a dyspraxic child.

There are three underlying causes of dyspraxia:

1. Poor Sensory Processing

The brain poorly receives information from the body regarding position, pressure, and orientation.

2. Persisting Primitive Reflexes

These reflexes, while normal in infants, should be inhibited by around six months. If they persist, they create extraneous movements that block the automation of gestures.

3. Blurred Body Schema

The child does not know where they begin or end, which disrupts their motor skills.

At BO RNP, our method is based on a fundamental principle: stabilize the sensory foundation before addressing motor actions.

Our Step-by-Step Approach

Here are the steps we follow:

1. Working on the Sensory System

We test proprioception, body awareness, and vestibular regulation. We stimulate reflex areas to rework the fundamental sensations of the body.

2. Sensory-Motor Stage

We observe automatic responses to certain postures, with reintegration exercises to calm the nervous system.

3. Motor Rehabilitation

We work on coordination, crossing movements, and incorporate elements like breathing.

4. Performance

We transpose progress into real-life situations, such as cutting or organizing. The child begins to stop compensating, regaining a smoother movement.

Conclusion

This process can sometimes take a few weeks, but the results are often quick. Children improve their balance and body awareness, allowing them to interact more easily with their peers.

If you are a parent or a child care professional, do not hesitate to contact us for a neuropostural reprogramming assessment. Together, we can change the way we view these children and provide them with the necessary tools to advance in their development.