ideomotor apraxia
Pronunciation: eye-dee-oh-MOTOR ah-PRAK-see-ah
Inability to perform learned motor movements on command despite intact comprehension and motor function, typically following left hemisphere stroke.
Full Definition
Ideomotor apraxia represents a specific type of motor planning disorder where patients cannot execute familiar gestures or movements when requested, despite understanding the command and having adequate motor strength. This condition commonly results from left hemisphere strokes affecting the parietal lobe or connecting pathways. Patients may perform the same movements spontaneously or during functional activities but fail when asked to demonstrate them in isolation. Rehabilitation focuses on functional task training rather than gesture practice, as improvements in isolated movements rarely transfer to meaningful activities. Assessment requires careful distinction from other apraxia types and motor deficits.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from other apraxia types in documentation - specify gesture types affected.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited ideomotor apraxia, unable to demonstrate brushing teeth on command but performing the action appropriately during morning care." — Occupational therapy assessment
- "Ideomotor apraxia testing revealed significant impairments in transitive gesture production affecting functional activities." — Neuropsychological evaluation report