Apraxia
Overview
Causes
This problem is caused by diseases or damage in the brain, such as:
- Stroke
- Brain tumor
- Brain injury
- Infection
- Degenerative brain diseases, such as Alzheimer disease and Huntington disease
Stroke |
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SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
A person may have problems:
- Copying movements or making signals when asked
- Making facial movements, such as winking, whistling, or sticking out the tongue
- Making the movements needed to speak
- Making more than one movement at the same time
- Making fine, exact movements with the hands or fingers, such as handling coins
- Walking
- Copying or drawing simple figures
- Picking and using tools or objects the right way
- Doing tasks in order
- Dressing
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. You may be asked to do common tasks as part of the exam. A neuropsychological test may also be done to check brain function.
Images may be taken of the brain. This can be done with:
- MRI scan
- CT scan
A person's speech ability may also be tested.
Treatments
Treatment
The cause will need to be treated. The treatment for apraxia will depend on the type a person has. Choices are:
- Physical therapy to help with movement
- Occupational therapy to help with everyday tasks and self-care
- Speech therapy to improve swallowing and speaking
- Cognitive rehabilitation to help with brain function
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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