Sometimes, we don’t know the definition and basic information about physical disability. What is a physical disability exactly? What distinguishes it from other types of disability? A physical disability focuses on our physical form, indicating a limitation of function and mobility in one or more limbs of a particular person. It may require assistive devices like wheelchairs, prosthetics, or other technologies.
Please read this article to learn more about physical disability and its causes and classification.
What is a physical disability?
Physical disability is a condition in which a person’s body functions are limited, making it difficult to function, move, or exercise dexterity. It is usually temporary or permanent, depending on how severe the damage is. The leading causes of physical disability are very diverse. Some are genetic, but accidents or congenital disorders cause some. Addressing physical disability requires practical support that adapts to each individual’s daily challenges and long-term goals. Start your referral with Unify Disability Services to access services that focus on mobility, independence, and improved quality of life.
What is a Physical Impairment
Physical impairment refers to a loss or abnormality in the structure or function of the body, which can lead to various physical disabilities. This can include problems with organs, muscles, bones or limbs. In addition, it is a broader term that consists of any physical dysfunction that may affect a person’s ability to interact with their environment in a usual way. Some examples of physical impairment are blindness, deafness, or paralysis.
Mobility Impairment
In contrast to physical impairments, mobility impairments specifically refer to limitations in a person’s ability to move freely or independently. This can include difficulty walking, standing, or moving from one place to another and can result from circumstances such as cerebral palsy, arthritis, amputation, or spinal cord injury. Mobility impairments can vary in severity, ranging from temporary restrictions that require a cane to permanent limits that require a wheelchair for complete mobility and health maintenance.
What Causes a Physical Disability?
The causes of physical disability are pretty diverse and different. Here are three common causes of physical disability.
Congenital Disability
A congenital disability is a disability caused by genetic factors or problems during pregnancy, which causes it to exist since the gestation process or even in the womb. This disability is also hereditary from genetic parents or grandparents due to problems in the development of the fetus. In addition, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or Down syndrome are congenital disabilities.
Acquired Injury
Physical disabilities that generally result from damage after having a road accident, sports impairment, violence, or falls are examples of physical disability. In addition, these damages are also usually formed due to trauma, which can significantly impact a person’s mobility and health. In addition to affecting the body, acquired injuries can also affect the brain, causing it to lack function. Therefore, this damage is hazardous and can affect all bodily functions.
Perinatal Causes
Perinatal causes refer to problems that occur during or shortly after birth that may lead to physical disability. In addition, many factors can influence issues in labour and cause disability in the child. These can be complications such as oxygen deprivation or asphyxia during birth, infection, or trauma during delivery. One example is that a lack of oxygen in the baby can cause brain damage and has the possibility of long-term disability.
Types of physical disabilities
Due to different causal factors, physical disabilities are classified into many categories. Here are some key categories to be aware of.
Acquired brain injury
Acquired brain injuries are physical disabilities that generally occur right after birth due to the damage done during childbirth. However, some people have brain impairment sometime after being born. Other causes that can cause brain injury are excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs, cancer, AIDS, and lack of oxygen.
People with brain injuries usually change their personalities and have difficulty processing information. However, about 200,000 people in Australia suffer a traumatic brain injury each year, with mild TBI being the most common.
Spinal cord injury (SCI)
Spinal cord impairment is damage to the spinal cord caused by trauma to the neck, head, or back, affecting motor functions. If the spinal cord is damaged due to a lot of pressure, the oxygen there will be cut off, leading to loss of function. Trauma can come from road traffic accidents or falls. However, the spinal cord can also be damaged by diseases such as arthritis, infection, and cancer.
Cerebral palsy
Unlike acquired brain impairment, cerebral palsy is caused by damage during brain formation during labour. 90% of cerebral palsy cases stem from brain damage before birth. It is infrequent for people to have cerebral palsy after childbirth. This damage is caused by the lack of oxygen in the brain. It causes people with cerebral palsy to usually experience problems with coordination and movement, including difficulty walking.
Spina bifida
Spina Bifida is a congenital condition in which the spinal cord and surrounding vertebrae do not develop properly during early pregnancy, resulting in a hole or gap in the spine. People with spina bifida tend to have difficulty learning, walking and paralysis of the lower limbs. Physical therapies such as bladder support, bowel control, and mobility aids are needed to help people with spina bifida with mobility. Surgery is also possible to close the spinal gap shortly after birth.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by the appearance of seizures from electrical activity originating from the brain. Some people sometimes have pattern seizures, but some also experience seizures that can occur suddenly, disrupting activities and health in their daily lives. Seizures can be reduced and better controlled by using medication, but surgery can also occur if the intensity is too high and disturbing. In addition, a healthy lifestyle and safety are needed for people with epilepsy to reduce the risk of daily activities.
Cystic fibrosis (CF)
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a disorder that causes low salt levels in the body and several effects, such as cramps, dehydration, and fatigue. Genetic factors affect the lungs, digestive system, and reproductive system. CF sufferers often have difficulty breathing and digesting food properly.
Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that cause muscles to weaken over time. It also affects muscles used for movement, like those in the arms and legs. As the condition progresses, it can lead to difficulty moving and even breathing. Some people develop it in childhood, while others may notice symptoms as adults. It can cause severe disability, but physical therapy and mobility aids like wheelchairs can help.
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the protective covering around the nerves, leading to problems with muscle control, balance, and coordination. Over time, this can cause muscle weakness, numbness, and, in some cases, paralysis. Multiple sclerosis has periods where symptoms get worse and times when they improve. Treatments aim to manage symptoms and slow down the disease’s progress in individuals with various physical disabilities.
Dwarfism
Dwarfism is a condition that causes people to have a shorter body shape than people in general, with an average height of 4 feet 10 inches (147 cm) or shorter, even though they are adults. This condition, where a person has difficulty with mobility and spinal issues, is caused by a genetic factor called achondroplasia. However, despite its mobility limitations, dwarfism does not generally affect cognitive function, so individuals with this condition are often competent in other aspects of their lives.
Tourette syndrome
Tourette syndrome is a condition that causes repetitive movements or sounds called tics, such as blinking or involuntarily saying words. It usually starts in childhood, with symptoms between the ages of 5 and 10.
Although tics cannot be controlled, like seizures in epilepsy, they can be managed with therapy and medication. While not typically considered a physical disability, the visible tics can lead to social and emotional challenges, so individuals may need support in coping with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the needs of a person with a physical disability?
The needs of a person with a physical disability can vary widely depending on the severity and type of condition, often requiring professional assistance. However, some of the most essential needs include assistive devices, accessibility, and personal assistance to support mobility and daily living. In addition, access to healthcare services and ongoing disability care is crucial to ensure overall well-being and independence. These supports work together to improve the quality of life and allow individuals to participate fully in their communities.
How do you identify physical disability?
A physical disability can be identified by observing limitations in a person's ability to move or perform everyday functions. Signs may include difficulty walking, standing, or using limbs, requiring mobility devices like crutches or wheelchairs. However, Formal identification typically involves a medical assessment, including diagnostic tests and evaluations of the person's physical abilities and limitations.
What is classed as a physical disability?
A physical disability is any circumstance that impairs a person's ability to perform regular bodily functions. It includes mobility impairments such as paralysis, amputations, or arthritis, as well as sensory disabilities like blindness or deafness. Chronic pain and neurological disorders like cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis are also considered physical disabilities that affect motor functions. Genetic factors, such as muscular dystrophy and trauma-related disabilities from accidents or damage, such as spinal cord impairment, are also included as examples of physical disability.
Physical Disability Support That Sees the Whole Person
Living with a physical disability looks different for everyone, and so does the right support.
At Unify, we see you, not just your diagnosis. From everyday tasks at home to getting out and about, the right physical disability support can make life feel lighter and more independent.
You do not have to work it all out on your own. Our friendly team can listen, understand your situation, and shape support around your goals.
There is no wait time, and reaching out is simple.
Conclusion
Physical disabilities can arise from various causes, including congenital conditions, acquired injuries, and perinatal complications such as neural tube defects. Although these disabilities may pose challenges, many individuals with physical disabilities can lead fulfilling lives with the proper support, treatment, and accommodations.
By understanding the causes and types of physical disabilities, we can foster a more supportive and safe environment for everyone. Prioritising accessibility, safety, and equal opportunities ensures that individuals with physical disabilities have the resources they need to live their lives to the fullest. For those ready to access tailored services, learning how to apply for NDIS is an important first step. Visit Unify Disability Services to discover how we can help individuals with physical disabilities thrive every day. We support people living with physical disability in Australia through tailored care and resources.
