Developmental Motor Coordination Disorder (DMCD), also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a condition that affects children’s physical coordination.

It is a neurological disorder that impairs motor skills, making it difficult for children to coordinate their movements and perform tasks that require physical control. The condition affects between 5% and 6% of school-aged children, and it is more common in boys than in girls.

What Causes DMCD?

DMCD is believed to have a complex and multifactorial origin. It is caused by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.

Research has shown that children with DMCD have differences in the brain regions responsible for motor coordination and motor learning compared to children without the disorder. The disorder is also associated with impairments in the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain that controls motor coordination, balance, and posture.

Studies have identified genetic variants that increase the risk of DMCD. These genetic variations may affect the development and function of the brain, leading to problems with motor coordination and control.

Environmental factors such as premature birth, low birth weight, and maternal smoking during pregnancy have also been associated with the development of DMCD.

Symptoms of DMCD

The symptoms of DMCD can vary from child to child and can range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms of DMCD include:.

Difficulty with gross motor skills such as running, jumping, and throwing
Difficulty with fine motor skills such as writing, drawing, and buttoning clothes
Clumsiness and frequent falls
Difficulty with activities that require coordination, such as riding a bike
Trouble with balance and posture
Delayed motor milestones such as crawling, walking, and sitting up
Inconsistent performance on motor tasks

Children with DMCD may also experience poor self-esteem, difficulty with social skills, and academic difficulties due to difficulties with handwriting and other fine motor skills required for learning.

Diagnosis of DMCD

DMCD can be difficult to diagnose as there is no specific medical test for it. Diagnosis is typically made by a pediatrician or a specialist such as a neurologist or occupational therapist.

The diagnosis of DMCD is based on a child’s medical history, a physical examination, and an assessment of motor skills.

Medical history: The physician will ask about the child’s birth weight, developmental milestones, and any neurological or medical conditions the child has or has had in the past.

Physical examination: The physician will perform a physical exam to check for any signs of neurological or developmental problems.

Assessment of motor skills: An occupational therapist or physical therapist will assess the child’s motor skills using standardized tests to determine if there is a delay or impairment in motor development.

Treatment for DMCD

There is currently no cure for DMCD, but treatments can help improve a child’s motor coordination and overall functioning. Treatment typically includes a combination of occupational therapy, physical therapy, and educational support.

The goal of treatment is to help the child develop individualized strategies to cope with motor difficulties and improve their overall functioning.

Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists work with children to develop fine motor skills, such as handwriting and buttoning clothes, and improve eye-hand coordination and visual perception.

Physical therapy: Physical therapists work with children to develop gross motor skills, such as jumping, skipping, and balance. They also work on increasing strength and endurance.

Educational support: Children with DMCD may qualify for special education services to assist them with academic difficulties related to their motor impairments.

Services may include accommodations such as extended time on tests, preferential seating, and assistive technology.

Conclusion

DMCD is a complex disorder that affects children’s physical coordination. It is caused by a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors and can have significant impacts on a child’s functioning and quality of life.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help children with DMCD improve their motor skills and overall functioning and maximize their potential.