COORDINATION PROBLEMS

Identifying and Managing Child Coordination Problems

Coordination problems can often be as a result of neurodevelopmental delays but just as often can be as a result of pure musculoskeletal issues.

In many cases the child has no neurodevelopmental issues but rather muscular weakness and reduced core stability as a result of excessive flexibility (see Hypermobility).

This can be very frustrating for a child because it makes it difficult to keep up with peers in the playground. Boys with coordination problems will often become the “joker” to divert attention from balance and coordination problems.

Girls may avoid sport and take on more sedentary activities. Some very simple principles and techniques can assist in retraining the brain to think about movement differently.

Management includes developing core and pelvic stability, implementing  the “lock and load” principle and specific drills to facilitate improvement in gait, running and hand-eye (ball) skills. Early intervention is always beneficial but it is never too late to improve coordination.

The byproduct of improved coordination is almost always improved self esteem, increased activity levels and more interaction with their peers.

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