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 can be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause and severity. The causes of physical disability are diverse. Some are genetic or present from birth, while others result from injury or illness. 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
Within the broader group of 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 where a person uses a wheelchair.
What Causes a Physical Disability?
The causes of physical disability are diverse. Here are three common causes of physical disability.
Congenital disability
A congenital disability is present from birth and may be caused by genetic factors or by problems during pregnancy. Some congenital conditions are inherited, while others result from problems with the development of the foetus. Examples include cerebral palsy, spina bifida and Down syndrome.
Acquired injury
Acquired injuries result from damage after birth, such as from a road accident, sports injury, violence or a fall. This trauma can significantly impact a person’s mobility and health. Acquired injuries can also affect the brain, which can in turn affect many 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 may lead to 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
An acquired brain injury (ABI) is damage to the brain that occurs after birth, for example from a stroke, accident or fall. Other causes include alcohol or drug use, tumours, infections and lack of oxygen.
People with brain injuries may experience personality changes and difficulty processing information. About 200,000 people in Australia experience a traumatic brain injury each year, with mild TBI being the most common.
Spinal cord injury (SCI)
Spinal cord injury 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 injury, cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the developing brain, usually before or around birth. Most cases stem from brain damage before birth, and it is less common for cerebral palsy to develop after birth. Causes can include a lack of oxygen, infection or stroke. People with cerebral palsy often 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 may experience learning difficulties, difficulty walking or paralysis of the lower limbs. Supports such as bladder and bowel management, physiotherapy and mobility aids can help. 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’s seizures follow a pattern, while others occur suddenly, disrupting daily activities and health. Seizures can often be reduced and better controlled with medication, and surgery may be an option when medication does not control them. A healthy lifestyle and safety planning can also help people with epilepsy reduce risks in daily activities.
Cystic fibrosis (CF)
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that mainly affects the lungs, digestive system and reproductive system, causing thick, sticky mucus to build up. It can also cause excessive salt loss through sweat, leading to cramps, dehydration and fatigue. People with CF 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.
Dwarfism
Dwarfism is a condition that causes people to have a shorter body shape than people in general, with an adult height of 147 cm (4 feet 10 inches) or shorter. The most common cause is a genetic condition called achondroplasia, which can also lead to mobility and spinal issues. Despite these mobility limitations, dwarfism does not generally affect cognitive function.
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 are involuntary, they can often be managed with behavioural 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 conditions such as muscular dystrophy, and trauma-related disabilities such as spinal cord injury, are also 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.
Some supports may start promptly, and reaching out is simple. Check wait times for your region.
Conclusion
Physical disabilities can arise from various causes, including congenital conditions, acquired injuries, and perinatal complications such as oxygen deprivation at birth. 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.
