How Do Sensory Processing Differences Relate to Co-occurring Dyspraxia in Autism?

PostedDecember 18, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Sensory differences, dyspraxia, and autism are often linked, as both dyspraxia and autism can involve difficulties with sensory processing and motor coordination. Sensory differences in autism refer to the way the brain processes and responds to sensory stimuli like sound, touch, or movement.

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a developmental disorder that affects physical coordination and motor planning. In autism, motor coordination difficulties are often compounded by sensory sensitivities, making activities requiring fine or gross motor skills even more challenging. Both conditions are considered developmental disorders, meaning they can affect the way a person develops motor skills and processes sensory information from an early age.

How Sensory Differences and Dyspraxia in Autism Interact

Here’s how Sensory differences, dyspraxia, and autism are interconnected:

Motor coordination challenges and sensory sensitivities

Difficulty with movements and coordination in dyspraxia may be made more challenging by heightened or decreased sensory responses in autism. Occupational therapy that focuses on both motor coordination and sensory integration can help individuals improve their physical skills while managing sensory input.

Clumsiness and difficulty with physical tasks

Individuals with both dyspraxia and autism may struggle with tasks like handwriting, tying shoes, or participating in sports. Structured exercises and activities that target motor planning and sensory integration can help improve coordination over time.

Frustration and emotional difficulties

The challenges of managing motor tasks combined with sensory overload can lead to frustration and emotional dysregulation. A combination of sensory-focused interventions and behavioural strategies can help reduce stress and improve motor function.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on managing sensory differences, dyspraxia and autism, and improving motor coordination.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.