[ Browse by Service Category : Disabilities and Health Conditions : Sub-Topics of Physical Disabilities (18) ]
Amputations
The surgical removal of one or more limbs.
Paralysis
A complete or partial loss of controlled movement caused by the inability to contract one or more muscles. Paralysis may be temporary or permanent; can result from numerous causes including brain, muscle or peripheral nerve disorders, injury, disease or the toxic effects of some drugs or metals; and can affect a range of muscles from a small facial muscle to many of the major muscles in the body. Loss of feeling in the affected areas may accompany the inability to move.
Wheelchair Users
Individuals who are unable to walk or have difficulty walking because of temporary or permanent illnesses or injuries and who utilize wheelchairs to enhance their mobility.
The above terms and definitions are part of the Taxonomy of Human Services, used here by permission of INFO LINE of Los Angeles.