What is apraxia?
Apraxia is a neurological condition that makes it hard to plan and coordinate purposeful movements, even though the muscles work and the person knows what they want to do. In childhood apraxia of speech, a child knows what they want to say but has trouble moving the lips, tongue, and jaw to form the words.
In adults, apraxia can happen after a stroke or brain injury and may affect speech or everyday tasks like using tools or familiar movements. Symptoms vary, from inconsistent sounds to trouble completing multi-step actions.
Apraxia is not caused by weak muscles. The challenge is in the brain's planning of movement, which is why therapy focuses on motor planning.
Types of apraxia
- Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS)
- A motor speech disorder present from childhood that affects planning the movements for speech.
- Acquired apraxia of speech
- Apraxia that begins in adulthood, usually after a stroke or brain injury.
- Limb apraxia
- Difficulty planning purposeful movements of the arms or hands, such as using tools.
Common signs and challenges
- Late talking or few words
- Inconsistent errors on the same word
- Groping movements of the mouth
- Longer words are much harder
- Choppy or unusual rhythm
- Understands more than they can say
- Frustration when trying to talk
- Trouble with familiar movements
How therapy may help
Every plan starts with an evaluation. Which disciplines are involved depends on your goals and what the evaluation shows.
What to expect at Empowerize
Your therapist works one-on-one with you or your child to build a customized treatment plan. We collaborate with your referring physician and give regular updates on your plan of care. Families and caregivers are included in goal setting and home strategies.
Questions families ask about apraxia
Will my child outgrow apraxia of speech?
Childhood apraxia of speech usually does not resolve on its own. Frequent, structured speech therapy helps many children make meaningful progress.
How is apraxia different from a speech delay?
A speech delay usually follows a typical pattern, just later. Apraxia involves difficulty planning speech movements, with errors that are often inconsistent. A speech-language pathologist can tell the difference.
How often is therapy for apraxia?
Apraxia typically responds best to frequent sessions with lots of practice. Your therapist will recommend a schedule after the evaluation.