Limb is used for carrying out movements like- walking, running etc. In humans, the pair of upper limbs are called arms and the lowers limbs are called legs. Apraxia is generally called as Limb Apraxia . Sometimes a child may suffer from ‘praxis on verbal command’ , where the child is unable to perform what he is told to do, for example – to show your tongue etc. ‘postural praxis’ may also be seen in few where the child fails to imitate on something. These conditions are also called oral-motor praxis . Shaking head to say yes/no may be related to gestural praxis or symbolic communication .
Children who suffer from Apraxia have proper strength and skill to perform any work but they cannot perform when they are asked to do. They only cannot follow instructions. They cannot act voluntarily. For example: A child may say yes or no when hears a particular thing, but will never be able to repeat the same when asked to do so. The child may be able to smile at something but will not smile when asked to. The child may open his mouth to eat but cannot open his mouth when asked to. These examples show that patients suffering from Apraxia do not have any problems in coordination, capability or strength. Its just that they are incapable to perform anything when they are asked for. So these children can act only on spontaneous reactions but would never be able to react under voluntary and forced situations.
Treatment of Limb Apraxia:
Physical Therapy:
This process aims at developing, restoring and maintaining maximum movement and physical functionality of the body.
Occupational Therapy:
Occupational therapy teaches patients an active way of participation in their daily life. The therapists use meaningful and playful activities to overcome the barriers which interrupts in daily activities.
Speech Therapy:
This therapy helps the patient learn making sounds, speak, swallow, making mouth movements voluntarily.
Not much study is done on the treatment of Limb Apraxia. But a combination of fish oils and vitamins E and K is seen to have successfully treated younger children in certain cases.
