Ataxia: Overcoming challenges, with occupational therapy

One of many symptoms that can result from physical trauma or injury to the brain, ataxia is a term that encompasses a group of debilitating disorders, primarily affecting co-ordination, balance and speech. This article will explore ways that occupational therapy professionals can support those affected by ataxia.

According to the NHS (2022), any part of the body can be affected by this disorder, but common difficulties arise with balance and walking, speaking and swallowing. Ataxia also compromises tasks that require a high degree of control, such as writing, eating and vision. The graphic below illustrates the physiology and symptoms (ProtoKinetics, 2019):

[Image credit: ProtoKinetics, 2019]

Symptoms of acquired ataxia are a direct result of trauma, brain injury, brain tumour or a stroke, among other causes. It is important to highlight that there are different types of ataxia; the exact symptoms experienced - and their severity - depend on the form of ataxia a person has.

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