Mobility Disabilities

Overview

Mobility disabilities can have a wide range of causes and can be permanent, temporary or intermittent. Permanent conditions can include: partial or total paralysis, amputation or severe spinal injury, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, back injury, head injury, and severe arthritis.

Some people with respiratory and cardiac diseases may also have impaired mobility.

These conditions can impair strength, speed, endurance, co-ordination and dexterity.

Effects of the condition

Inability to walk;
May only be able to walk short distances;
May need to use a wheelchair, crutches, calipers, walking frames, or walking sticks;
May need to have a personal attendant to assist with personal care;
May move slowly and need frequent rest breaks;
May have associated conditions (i.e. extreme fatigue, pressure sores, etc);
Difficulty or inability to utilise inaccessible rooms and buildings;
May experience pain and/or spasms;
May take medication for pain or to relax muscles.