Locomotor disabilities

 According to the persons with disabilities Act of 1995 " Locomotor disability means disability of the bones, joints Or muscles leading to substantial restriction of the movement of the limbs or any form of cerebral palsy. " 

 Some common conditions giving raise to  locomotor disability are 

• Poliomyelitis
• Cerebral palsy
• Amputation 
• Injury in spine, head and soft tissues 
• Fractures
• Paralysis
• Dwarfism
• Neurological conditions
• Muscular dystrophies etc., 

The term locomotor is derived from the latin words loco -" From a place " And motivus -" Causing motion". So locomotion means movement from one place to another. Around 1.6% of the indian population is believed to have locomotor disabilities. There are various degrees and types of locomotor disability. Some main categories of locomotor disability are as follows

1. Locomotor disability of upper limb
2. Locomotor disability of lower limb
3. Locomotor disability of trunk ( spine) 
4. Locomotor disability in case short stature/ dwarfism
5. Locomotor disability in amputees 
6. Longitudinal deficiencies - radial and ulnar are most common type. 

Depending oh the types of locomotor disability treatment, rehabilitation and therapy can be undertaken. In most cases the disability is permanent and affected person is dependent on mobilty aids such as wheelchairs, crutches, tricycle, and sticks. Disabled people face discrimination in our society due to narrow - mindedness ans seek equality, dignity and respect. RPWD Act 2016 assures them of protection and equality.