♿ Physical Disability – Overview

 

(Easy Read Training Text)

Physical disability is a condition that affects a person’s:

• Movement
• Strength
• Stamina (energy)
• Dexterity (hand and body control)

A physical disability may be:

• Present from birth
• Caused by illness
• Caused by injury later in life
• Temporary or permanent

It affects people in different ways, so no two experiences are the same.

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🧠 What is a Physical Disability?

A physical disability may make it harder for a person to:

• Walk or move around
• Use their hands or arms
• Carry out daily tasks
• Stay physically active

Some people use support such as:

• Wheelchairs
• Walking aids
• Mobility equipment

The level of impact can be mild, moderate, or severe.

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📚 Common Types of Physical Disabilities

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🧠 Cerebral Palsy

• Caused by early brain development or brain injury
• Affects movement, posture, and muscle control
• May cause stiffness or uncontrolled movements

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🧬 Spina Bifida

• A condition where the spine does not fully develop
• May cause:
  • Weakness or paralysis
  • Bladder and bowel difficulties
  • Mobility challenges

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🧠 Spinal Cord Injury

• Damage to the spinal cord
• Can result in:
  • Loss of movement
  • Loss of feeling
  • Paralysis

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💪 Muscular Dystrophy

• A genetic condition
• Causes muscles to weaken over time
• Affects movement and independence

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🦾 Limb Loss / Amputation

• Loss of a limb due to injury or illness
• May require prosthetic limbs or mobility aids

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🧠 Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

• Affects the brain and spinal cord
• Can cause:
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
  • Balance problems

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⚡ Other Neurological Conditions

These may also affect movement:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Stroke
• Epilepsy

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🧬 Causes of Physical Disability

Physical disabilities can happen:

• Before birth (genetic or developmental)
• During birth (lack of oxygen or complications)
• After birth (injury, illness, or disease)

They may be:

• Congenital (from birth)
• Acquired (develop later in life)

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🧩 Other Conditions Linked to Physical Disability

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🩺 Chronic Pain and Fatigue Conditions

• Fibromyalgia
• ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

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🦴 Bone and Joint Conditions

• Scoliosis (curved spine)
• Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bones)
• Arthritis

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🫁 Long-Term Health Conditions

• Cystic fibrosis
• Heart disease
• Respiratory conditions

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🧠 Sensory or Neurological Effects

Some physical disabilities may also affect:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Coordination
• Balance

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🛠️ Support and Management

People with physical disabilities may receive support such as:

• Physiotherapy (movement and strength)
• Occupational therapy (daily living skills)
• Assistive technology (equipment and tools)
• Medication (pain or muscle control)
• Mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)

The aim is to help people live more independently and safely.

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🌍 Key Message

Physical disability affects people in different ways.

It can impact:

• Movement
• Independence
• Daily life activities

With the right support, people can:

• Learn new skills
• Stay active
• Take part in education, work, and community life
• Live more independent lives