The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) defines orthopedic disability as any disease or injury that produces musculoskeletal or neuromotor problems that could interfere with learning. The assessment process involves doctors, therapists, and a review by the school to develop a plan that meets the child’s needs, which may include one-on-one teaching and special devices.
One of the best-known laws in the United States, the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), helps establish definitions and guidelines for schools and government agencies about how children with disabilities should receive educational aids during their education. According to IDEA, an orthopedic disability would include any disease or injury that produces musculoskeletal disabilities, neuromotor problems, or any physical challenge that could interfere with learning. Orthopedic disability is evaluated through an extensive review process. The type of help provided to a child with one of these physical impairments varies widely and is based on the findings of the review and each child’s individual needs.
Orthopedic injury includes disease or injury that impairs the use of muscles, joints, or bones. Some of the disorders that can cause musculoskeletal damage include polio, muscular dystrophy, or injuries, including burns and fractures. Some examples of disorders that cause neuromuscular injury are brain or spinal injuries and the diseases cerebral palsy and spina bifida.
Musculoskeletal disorders can manifest as difficulties in muscle development and can cause poor fine or gross motor control. These problems can affect your child’s ability to write, move around in class, or participate in physical activities. Neuromuscular disabilities can result in poor control of the nervous system which can manifest itself in a wide range of problems, from paralysis to the inability to keep the head still or erect. Paralysis can interfere with learning at all levels, and head movement or neck weakness can hinder the concentration and ability to focus needed in learning.
Orthopedic disability assessment is a long process. First, the child’s physical ailments are examined and described by doctors and neurologists. Additionally, an occupational or physical therapist will assess the impact of your child’s disability on their ability to learn and move. A therapist may also be asked to assess how the child handles her disability in a social context. Eventually, the completed assessment will be reviewed by the school and a plan will be developed to meet the specialist needs of the child.
Often a child with an orthopedic disability will be provided with a special one-on-one teacher who will work with the child in the classroom and help them physically move and learn. A child may also be given special devices to help him learn. This physical support may come in the form of a special keyboard and computer for a child who is unable to write and take notes or a specialized chair or wheelchair to allow the child to sit comfortably or move around with ease in the classroom.
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