Physical Disabilities
Physical disabilities can be sensory, where there are problems with sight, hearing or speech, or they may impair motor function, so that movement is restricted or imprecise. Injuries may cause a disability, and disease such as a heart condition may also make normal exertion impossible.
Some disabilities start at birth - congenital disabilities. Others are acquired during life. If you have a disability, it is almost certain that there are many others who do also. Most conditions have support groups or associations that have grown up relating to the problem. These groups may offer specialized help to minimize the effect of the condition.
Recently Answered
- Q Do Blind Rehabilitation Centers help with coping skills?
-
With a trained staff, the Blind Rehabilitation Centers work with veterans in both individual and group talk therapy sessions. During these intimate encounters, trained professionals teach veterans key strategies to cope with their acute or chronic vision... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are impatient blind rehabilitation centers?
-
Impatient blind rehabilitation centers offer short-term (around two weeks) rehabilitation for blinded veterans. These centers offer comfortable overnight stays for active duty personnel and veterans who are visually impaired and in need of lodging.... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What help does the VHA give to veterans with low vision after combat?
-
With more soldiers and veterans suffering with war-related visual impairment and blindness, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) acknowledges the importance of providing blind and low vision rehabilitation care to these veterans. In fact, the... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Does the VA provide guide dogs for blinded veterans?
-
Guide dogs are obtained through private agencies. For veterans who are blinded or visually impaired, the VA does not pay for the dog nor do they manage this process. Eligible veterans must apply to the guide dog agency and that agency has their own... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are some new technologies for people with paralysis?
-
Scientists are working on many new technologies for people with paralysis to help them become more independent. They are developing lighter wheelchairs and wheelchairs that are able to climb stairs. Other new technologies include remote controlled or... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What do I need to know about caring for someone with paralysis?
-
When caring for someone with paralysis, remember that the condition affects people emotionally as well as physically. Help them with tasks as needed, but encourage them to be independent. Encourage exercise and to improve range of motion, strengthen... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q How can I prepare to discuss my paralysis with my doctor?
-
To prepare for your appointment, make a list of important questions to ask your doctor. You might want to ask about treatments that are available to you and get referrals for some specialists, such as a rehabilitation specialist or physiatrist, physical... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Are there alternative treatments for paralysis?
-
There are several alternative treatment options that people with paralysis may find beneficial. Physical and occupational therapy are very helpful, because these activities help exercise muscles and joints and may improve range of motion. Massages, hot... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Will my paralysis affect my ability to have children?
-
Many people with paralysis can have children. Women with paralysis or women who have partners with paralysis can get pregnant and have a normal labor and delivery. Talk to your doctor for more information about fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth for... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What causes paralysis?
-
Paralysis occurs when the nerves that run through the spinal cord are damaged. When these nerves are damaged, they cannot receive messages from or send messages to the brain about sensory information or muscle movement. This condition has many causes,... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
