Children with DCD often have hypermobile joints, which makes it difficult for them to control movement. Physical therapy techniques and interventions help improve movement, muscle control and stability. They include:
Manual Manipulation – Therapy helps patients concentrate and gain awareness of the muscles used for specific movements.
Aquatic Therapy – Water provides a supportive medium in which patients can improve motor skills. It relieves weight on muscles and joints, making it easier to perform specific movements.
Occupational Therapy – In conjunction with physical therapy, this helps to modify the environment and the manner in which day to day tasks are completed.
Progressive strengthening – This helps individuals build muscle strength, coordination and balance. Depending upon the patient, therapists may employ specialized equipment to perform specific movements and increase body awareness.
Home Exercise Programs – Therapists can develop an individualized exercise program to enable a patient to exercise at home, in between office visits. The objective is to help the patient build confidence, self-esteem and promotes physical activity.
Movement Adaptations – Physical therapists encourage movement adaptations that enable children with DCD learn and perform tasks that other children typically do, such as riding a bike. Therapists work with parents and schools to make appropriate accommodations for an optimal learning experience.