Abstract
This case report describes the application of two treatment intervention theories for Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) to physical therapy practice. The patient was an 8-year-old girl with hypotonicity, generalized weakness, balance, coordination deficits, and poor cardiovascular endurance. Parent concerns related to frequent episodes of tripping and falling. DCD treatment intervention theories of the bottom up (process or deficit oriented) and top down (functional skill approach) methods were used to guide and direct the physical therapy treatment. After 8 months of treatment, the child improved in balance, coordination, gross motor development, cardiovascular endurance, and self-esteem. The case report demonstrates a method to apply the current knowledge of DCD treatment theory in a way can be integrated into clinical practice. Applying a strategic combination of each theory in this case has led to the development of clinical questions for future research.