+++
CONDITION/DISORDER SYNONYMS
++
DCD
Clumsy child syndrome
Motor dyspraxia
Developmental dyspraxia
Sensory integrative dysfunction
Disorder of attention, motor, and perception
Minor coordination dysfunction
++
++
+++
PREFERRED PRACTICE PATTERN
++
++
PATIENT PRESENTATION
A 5-year-old male is referred for outpatient physical therapy for frequent falling. The parents report he takes Strattera for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and gets frustrated when trying to play with his 4-year-old sister. Upon examination, the therapist notes the child has mild hypotonia especially in his trunk, has difficulty balancing on one leg, and has poor coordination with kicking or catching a ball. He has fair abdominal strength and descends stairs in a step-to-step pattern.
++
+++
Essentials of Diagnosis
++
+++
General Considerations
++
Four criteria
Difficulty performing age-appropriate motor skills
Child has had sufficient opportunity to attain motor skills
No medical reason for motor difficulty
Difficulties impact academics or ADLs
++
Fifty percent of children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) also have ADHD2, 3
Affects 5% to 6% of all children4
Affects twice as many males as females4
++
+++
Functional Implications
++
+++
Possible Contributing Causes
++
+++
Differential Diagnosis
++
+++
MEANS OF CONFIRMATION OR DIAGNOSIS
+++
Diagnostic Procedures
++
++
++