The brain is the main coordinator of the movements that we make. Once we think of a certain movement it is up to another different part of the brain to provide the order of specific movements so as to complete a certain task. The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain divided into two hemispheres and connected by a thick band of fibers. This part of the brain determines intelligence, interpretation of sensory impulses as well as motion functions. Another relevant part of the brain when it comes to differentiating between ataxia and apraxia is the cerebellum. The cerebellum is a smaller part of the brain that is located just above the brain stem; it is responsible for among others controlling balance and coordination of muscle movements.
Better Understanding
To differentiate between ataxia and apraxia it is important to understand the functions of the relevant parts of the brain as demonstrated above. Ataxia is a clinical signal affecting the coordination of muscle movements. It mainly affects parts of the brain such as the cerebellum. This condition maybe characterized by sensory loss and dysfunctional motor control. On the other hand, apraxia is a motor planning disorder caused by damage to the cerebrum. Apraxia is not characterized by sensory loss as the patient has the ability and willingness to conduct the action, but is unable.
Causes of the Conditions
Different causes exist for variations of these conditions, but generally Apraxia is caused by lesions on the left hemisphere of the brain; though lesions on the right hemisphere can also cause it. These lesions may be caused by strokes, brain injuries and other degenerative diseases affecting the brain. Ataxia may be caused by the occurrence of all causes together or one cause alone. These causes include but are not limited to; radiation poisoning, a deficiency of vitamin B12, and hypothyroidism and in some cases Ataxia may be hereditary.
Types
Apraxia and Ataxia come in different types depending on the affected areas as well as symptoms. Known types of Ataxia include cerebellar ataxia, which indicates dysfunctions in the cerebellum affecting coordinating movement. Sensory ataxia involves loss sensitivity in joints and other body parts. Lastly, we have vestibular Ataxia, which demonstrates improper functioning of the vestibular system. Apraxia comes in different forms including among others; Apraxia of speech, which involves difficulty in coordinating speech movements. Ideomotor Apraxia involves the inability to act out movements; while ideational or conceptual Apraxia involves the inability to conduct activities of one task in the right order.
Treatment
As of now there is no treatment that is sure to work for both conditions, but research findings demonstrate that there are different treatments that may yield some improvements. Documented treatments for Apraxia include speech, physical and occupational therapy. The effectiveness of Ataxia treatment mainly depends on the underlying cause. It is however not likely that the treatment will eliminate the effects of ataxia completely.
