Developmental Coordination Disorder

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Developmental Coordination Disorder

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A neurodevelopmental condition involving motor coordination substantially below expected levels for age, interfering with daily activities.

Overview

Developmental coordination disorder involves acquisition and execution of coordinated motor skills substantially below what is expected for chronological age, interfering with activities of daily living, with onset in the early developmental period.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can include clumsiness, being slow or inaccurate in motor tasks such as catching objects, handwriting, or riding a bicycle, relative to peers. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause is not fully understood. It may relate to differences in motor planning and coordination processes in the brain.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Occupational and physical therapy targeting specific motor skills have evidence supporting their use.

Living With Developmental Coordination Disorder

Structured, repeated practice of specific motor tasks, along with patience and encouragement, supports skill-building.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Outlook

With targeted therapy, many children show meaningful improvement in motor skills and confidence over time.

Related Conditions

Autism Spectrum Disorder

A neurodevelopmental condition involving differences in social communication and interaction, along with restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests.

Intellectual Disability

A neurodevelopmental condition involving deficits in intellectual functioning and adaptive functioning that begin during the developmental period.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institute of Mental Health.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.