Orthopedic Impairments

IDEA Definition
...means a severe orthopedic impairment that adversely affects a childs educational
performance.
The term includes impairments caused by a congenital anomaly, impairments caused
by disease (e.g., poliomyelitis, bone tuberculosis), and impairments from other causes
(e.g., cerebral palsy, amputations, and fractures or burns that cause contractures).

Common Characteristics
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Issues with motor skills

Fatigue
Poor self concepts
Body pain/discomfort
Lack of mobility
Lack of typical childhood play
Limited self- care skills
Lack of common experiences

Teaching Strategies
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Secure paper to students work area

Special seating
Taping lectures and class discussions
Allow more time for motor skill activities
Work with their physical and occupational
therapists
Assistive & communication technology (screen
reading software)
Remove physical barriers to learning (consider
movement)

Resources
http://www.education.com/reference/article/orthopedic-impairments/#C
Great site to learn more about orthopedic impairments. Includes info on assessing
children with these impairments and the educational limitations.
http://www.projectidealonline.org/v/orthopedic-impairments/
Outlines definition, characteristics, and teaching strategies for those with orthopedic
impairments. This is also links to many other relevant, helpful web pages.
http://marylandlearninglinks.org/279516
This site has helpful strategies for working with kids with Orthopedic Impairments. It
also has tips for making the classroom accessible.
https://edie502.wikispaces.com/Orthopedic++Impairments
This site describes common characteristics of students with O.I. In addition, it outlines
the different types of Orthopedic Impairment, and outlines inclusive practices.
https://sites.google.com/site/specialeducationnation/orthopedic-impairment
This site has information about the effect of O.I. on teenagers and adults and current
trends.