Possible dyspraxia?

[hatethisweather]

Hi, just wondering if dyspraxia can be diagnosed on mainly fine motor issues?

DS 14, has always had difficulties with handwriting…. Awkward pencil grip, pain when writing, messy handwriting. He also struggles with activities like using cutlery, scissors etc.
I don’t think there’s major issues with his gross motor. He used to play soccer and tennis quite well when he was younger but gave them up because he tires easily and complains of back pain when playing ( had that checked out by gp and had some physio sessions). GP felt he has a bit of hyper mobility in some joints, he also has flat arches and wears orthotics.
He’s not particularly disorganised and I think his visual perception is ok. He’s not very social, but I put that down to shyness.

Anyway, based on info I’ve given, is it worth getting an OT assessment done privately for him? My main reason, would be to access assistive technology for exams in school as his hand tires so quickly when writing.

If you’ve read this far, thank you!

I would get an OT assessment done. We had one over the summer for DS (7yo) and they pointed out a number of things that needed to be worked on. Do not be suprised if they say that the weakness isn't just in the hands - there are a number of muscles that need to be used in concert to get the activities that you have described to work. Ask your SENCO for a name if possible.

The OTs that I have spoken to have said that they no longer use the term dyspraxic. I have no idea what term they do use!

In the short term, get some theraputty (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08WJCP78K/ref=twister_B08WJB23J8?_encoding=UTF8&th=1) in either medium or firm and get him to play with that (squeeze, hide things in and dig out, roll into balls etc). It will help to develop his small muscles and get them to work together. HTH

I should say my DS is similar to yours - no gross motor issues as far as I could see but wears orthotics for flat feet and handwriting was illegible. He's had 3 OT sessions and seems to be making progress but has another 9 to go to finish the course.

An OT assessment would be helpful. However, a formal diagnosis is not required for the school to provide support for DS’s SEN and to put exam access arrangements in place, so speak to the school.

They use 'DCD'- developmental coordination disorder now. An OT could do an ABC to assess.