Does Celiac Affect Motor Skills?

[javic]

My son was really advanced with gross motor skills when he was tiny. He walked at 9 months. Just before he turned 4 they tested his gross motor skills and he was behind. Could not stand on one leg or do tandem step. Also, I noticed he can no longer catch a football - this was something he was able to do a year ago, but now he has real trouble with it. Could this be the celiac?

[GFinDC]

HI,

It could be a symptom of celiac. Celiac can affect the brain and nerves as well as the gut. One possible problem is nutrient deficiency that impairs nerve growth and repair, another is an immune attack on the brain call gluten ataxia.

[shadowicewolf]

Its possible.

I've always had motor skills problems (for example i cannot for the life of me skip or do anything that requires that much cordination) and sometimes i wonder if celiac was a part of it.

[rosetapper23]

Yes, motor skills can definitely be affected. Has he been following a gluten-free diet? Or do you suspect celiac because he's suddenly having trouble with motor skills?

[javic]

Sorry, I should have made it clear. My son has tested positive for celiac on a blood test a couple of weeks ago. We have not had an endoscopy yet.

I noticed my sons behaviour change quite dramatically when he was two. He slowed down a lot. Went from running everywhere to walking and then, over time, wanting to be carried. And then recently I noticed his inability to tandem step or catch a ball like before.

I've heard celiacs have reduced blood flow to the brain which could explain things like these gross motor issues. I just wonder if permanent damage is done or if it is wholly reversible. My son's nutrient levels were all normal so it is not a matter of malabsorption/ malnourishment.