Definitions and Characteristics

Physical Disabilities

Physical disabilities may affect mobility, strength, endurance and coordination. Musculo-skeletal disabilities may require mobility aids, such as crutches, braces or a wheelchair. In severe cases, a personal aide may be needed. There are many conditions that result in mobility difficulties, including accidents or injuries that cause paralysis or loss of a limb, active sickle cell anemia, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy.

There are many medical conditions that limit functioning. Often, these conditions are not immediately or consistently visible, such as arthritis, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, severe allergies or the long-term effects of a life-threatening illness. Individuals with these conditions may have periods of relative health and then experience acute episodes or periods of illness. Others may have permanent or transient manual disabilities, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive stress injury.

The degree of disability varies widely among people with physical limitations. In addition, two people with very similar disabilities may handle their difficulties quite differently. By the time individuals with physical disabilities enter college, many have learned to cope with accessibility issues in their familiar environments. A new environment, however, may be frustrating and provoke feelings of helplessness. Distances are often greater between classes, requiring greater expenditures of energy and greater need to plan a schedule that allows them to arrive to class on time with a minimum of fatigue. Inclement weather can create a serious hazard for a person with poor coordination or low endurance.

Physical access on the Emory campus is good because of a well-conceived master plan, but there are still obstacles around new construction, eliminating sidewalk access for a wheelchair, and some outbuildings that do not permit access, such as visits to the offices of graduate student instructors for consultation. Often students are required to take copious notes in class, a task that is difficult for individuals with manual disabilities or weak fine motor skills. All these considerations need to be kept in mind when determining accommodations for students with physical disabilities.

You can help by being aware of what the student is experiencing and attempting to alleviate frustrations through joint problem solving. If concerns continue, encourage the student to speak with the disabilities specialist in the Office of Disabilities Services or ask if you can call the specialist or the Director of Faculty Resources for Disabilities.