ideomotor apraxia
Inability to perform learned skilled movements on command despite understanding the request.
Full Definition
Ideomotor apraxia is a form of motor apraxia characterized by the inability to perform learned, skilled movements on verbal command or imitation, despite intact comprehension, motor strength, and coordination. Patients understand what is being requested but cannot translate the motor plan into action. The condition typically results from lesions in the left hemisphere, particularly involving the inferior parietal lobule or its connections. Patients may perform the same movements spontaneously but fail when asked to demonstrate them, and their attempts often result in spatial and temporal errors or inappropriate use of body parts as tools.
Usage
Usage note: Often shortened to 'limb apraxia' in clinical notes; distinguish from other apraxia subtypes.
In Context
- "Ideomotor apraxia was evident when the patient could not wave goodbye on command." — Neuropsychological assessment
- "Testing for ideomotor apraxia revealed difficulty with transitive and intransitive gestures." — Praxis examination report