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Apraxia

Disorder of performing learned purposeful movements.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Apraxia?

Apraxia is the inability to perform learned purposeful movements (such as brushing teeth, tying shoelaces, waving hand) on demand, despite intact muscle strength, sensation, and coordination. The motor planning required to execute the movement is impaired.

Apraxia can present in different forms such as oral apraxia affecting lip-tongue movements, speech apraxia, limb apraxia, and constructional apraxia. It is most often related to lesions in the left cerebral hemisphere.

Causes include stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, Alzheimer's disease, and degenerative disorders such as corticobasal degeneration. Diagnosis is made through detailed neurological examination and imaging.

Symptoms

Difficulty performing simple daily movements
Inability to follow verbal commands (motor planning failure)
Difficulty with imitation
Clumsiness in dressing or eating
Inability to produce speech sounds in correct sequence
Impairment in drawing shapes or assembling blocks
Awareness of the movement but inability to execute

Risk Factors

Stroke (especially left hemisphere)
Alzheimer's and other dementias
Corticobasal degeneration
Brain tumors and metastases
Head trauma
Infections such as herpes encephalitis
Advanced age

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden or progressive loss of daily skills
  • Loss of learned movements after stroke or head trauma
  • Accompanying impairment in speech planning
  • Movement planning deficit affecting independent living
  • Onset together with signs of dementia

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of the underlying cause
02
Occupational therapy (training in activities of daily living)
03
Speech therapy (for apraxia of speech)
04
Step-by-step movement teaching techniques (guided, broken into parts)
05
Home environment adaptations and assistive devices
06
Family education and support

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.