Dyslexia and Motor Coordination: Where Physiotherapy Fits

Being clear about what helps

Dyslexia is best supported by specialist educational approaches that target reading, phonological awareness and spelling. Some programmes marketed as movement-based treatments for dyslexia lack strong evidence. We'd rather be honest about that than promise something we can't deliver.

When coordination is also affected

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) coexists with dyslexia more often than chance would suggest. Children with DCD may be clumsy, struggle with sports, find handwriting slow and tiring, or have trouble with dressing and self-care.

How physiotherapy can help

When coordination difficulties are present, task-oriented approaches that practise specific skills, like catching, riding a bicycle, jumping or balancing, have good evidence. We also look at sitting posture, core stability and shoulder strength, which can influence handwriting comfort.

Working with teachers, educational psychologists and occupational therapists gives the most complete support.

Exercises often used for Dyslexia

These are exercises our physiotherapists commonly include. Which ones suit you, how many and in what order depends on your assessment and stage of recovery.

All pediatric exercises

Frequently asked questions