DefinitionThe term orthopedic impairment refers to a severe physical impairment that adversely affects a child's learning and/or educational performance. Orthopedic impairment refers to students whose severe orthopedic impairments affect their educational performance to the degree that the student requires special education
below is a video of a bicycle made for children with disabilites including orthopedic impairment Characteristics-paralysis
-unsteady gait -poor muscle control -loss of limb Evidence-Based Practice
Positioning: Positioning refers to keeping a student's body supported so that posture is maintained in a healthy way. For example, some students may slump over the side of the wheelchair if they are tired. Others may not be able to sit on the floor unless supported by a bolster. Yet others may need to change thier position (sitting versus standing, sitting versus lying on their sides) several times during the day. Positioning can help students to maintain muscle tone and posture, especially those whose conditions include a neurological element. For example, if Joan- who has cerebral palsy-is seated correctly in her wheelchair, it prevents her muscles from tightening further. Positioning also can help students use thier upper bodies (the head, arms, hands) more effectively. If they are supported so that their bodies are stable, writing or pressing a switch will be accomplished much more easily. Finally, positioning makes the students feel safe and secure. |
Causes & TreatmentsCauses of orthopedic impairments are:
-congenital anomalies - cerebral palsy - osteogenesis imperfecta - joint deformity - muscular dystrophy - experienced injuries or conditions - motor vehicle accidents - sports injuries - premature birth Because of the various forms of orthopedic impairments multiple specialists that are involved in treatments are: - Physical Therapist - Occupational Therapist - Speech-Language Pathologists - Adapted Physical Education Teachers - Music Therapists - Massage Therapists more information about orthopedic impairment can be found here |