21 disabilities under RPWD 2016 – Locomotor Disability

Today we will talk about Locomotor Disability, one of the 21 disabilities that is covered under the RPWD ACT 2016. Around, 1.6%of the Indian population is believed to have locomotor disabilities.

What is Locomotor Disability

The disability related to bones, joint or muscles that causes movement restrictions in the limbs is Locomotor Disability.

Some common conditions that can cause locomotor disability are

– Polio

– Cerebral Palsy

– Amputation

– Spinal Injuries

– Injuries of Head

– Soft Tissues

– Fractures

– Muscular Dystrophies

– Paralysis

– Dwarfism

– Neurological conditions

– Arthritis

Impact

People with Locomotor Disability are not able to use their limbs for movement and simple tasks like others. Locomotor Disability affects the ability of a person to walk, stand, pick up or grip things in their hands, move from one location to another and more such mobility related tasks.

Evaluation

To evaluate the extent of Locomotor Disability, functional limitations and impairments are measured. The ability or inability of a person to perform movement related activities can explain the severity of disability.

Early identification and treatment can help reduce the severity of locomotor disability. A regular medical checkup of the child or adult will help in identifying weakness,
deformities at an early stage so that corrective measures can be taken up to prevent worsening of the condition.

We live in exciting times, where many of these diseases may very well have a cure one day soon. But until such time, we owe it to our children, who are affected by these conditions, to provide them with a better quality of life, ensuring that they have access to the same standard of care which their western counterparts have, using available resources efficiently and sustainably. – Dr Ann Agnes Mathew, Paediatric Neurologist & Neuromuscular specialist

Types

There are various degrees and types of Locomotor Disability. Some main categories of Locomotor Disability are as follows.

• Locomotor Disability of Upper Limb
• Locomotor Disability of Lower Limb
• Locomotor Disability of Trunk (Spine)
• Locomotor Disability in case Short Stature/ Dwarfism
• Locomotor Disability in Amputees
• Longitudinal deficiencies- Radial and Ulnar are most common

Depending on the type of Locomotor Disability treatment, rehabilitation and therapy can be undertaken. In most cases the disability is permanent and affected person is dependent on mobility aids such as wheelchairs, crutches, tricycle, sticks.

Disabled people face discrimination in our society due to narrow-mindedness and seek equality, dignity and respect. RPWD Act 2016 assures them of protection and equality.

“I wish our society became broadminded about their attitudes towards people with disabilities. If given an opportunity we can work and be productive. On the other hand, people with disability should not give up easily. Perseverance and hard work can get you what you want to be. Just prove yourself and opportunities will follow you.”. says Jasmina Khanna, systems analyst with cerebral palsy