A disclaimer about language: we support the disabled community in their reclamation of the word Disabled as a positive and celebratory term to describe a range of functional differences that affect an individual’s daily life like walking, learning, and communicating. The people in this community are indeed very able. We want to promote more of these discussions so that access and support continues to grow for these groups to reach their maximum wellness potential. 

What is a disability?

The word ‘disability’ is extremely broad and inclusive of anything that affects a person’s daily life. Learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and physical disabilities are three general examples. 

Can Physio help the disabled community? 

This is a simple answer, of course! Physiotherapy is for everyone and every body. The goal of physio is to maximize your individual physical wellness potential. 

There is no one size fits all when it comes to physio assessments at large, so of course the same is true when it comes to the needs of people with disabilities. Whatever it is, the effects of living with a disability can have on one’s wellness is profound if the appropriate supports aren’t in place. The role of physiotherapy for people with disabilities is to help people to participate in physical activities that are suitable for them. Physios can work with the patients and their caregivers (if necessary) to provide stretch and strength work to help with day-to-day mobility, postural support and general comfort and confidence. 

Some learning disabilities and difficulties may not inherently hinder a person’s physical ability (ADHD, dyslexia) but it can be a leading contributor to a lack of participation in regular physical activity, which of course has an adverse effect on your long term health. In other situations people with developmental differences like autism and cerebral palsy (CP) need more support in their day-to-day activities to perhaps help them be more independent. Then of course, there are those with chronic pain or mobility issues who need support in pain management and finding safe ways to move their body and keep them as active as they can be.  

Physiotherapy is also a great avenue for education and encouragement to participate in physical activities that make sense for you. It creates a safe space to learn at the appropriate pace about your condition and how to manage it physically, while figuring out any special considerations to make activities accessible and fun. 

Having this relationship with a physio provides a springboard to improved confidence in socialization and participation in physical activities. At the end of the day we are here to help you reach your goals, whether that’s being able to sit up straight, or conquer the gym.

What are some ways to prepare for your assessment?

• Have a way to provide relevant medical history – you may not be able to remember or explain all the details you need which is totally ok, maybe ask your family doctor to forward your file? 

• Any information relating to the particular condition or syndrome you may have to give a holistic picture of your situation

• Let your physio know if there are specific communication tools/needs or likes/dislikes to ensure the best possible appointment experience. 

• Location and environment of the appointment – talk with your physio about how the appointment can be most relaxed and comfortable. 

• Length of appointment – depending on factors like level of communication or likelihood for distraction your appointment times may need to be longer or shorter. You (or the caregiver) might already have an idea of what the min-max time allotment is… let your physio know and they can plan accordingly. 

• Verbal vs. Written communication considerations – making appointments over the phone, in person, printed out in easy to read letter form, or email all provide different advantages and disadvantages. 

• When appropriate it’s good to have caregivers who know the patient well. This may make an assessment easier if they have a good understanding of the patient’s background and needs. 

Whether or not you have a disability, physiotherapy and physical activity are great ways to improve your overall wellness. A physio can help you develop skills that will lead to socialization, structure/accountability mechanisms, overall physical health and knowledge of your body. This can be a huge benefit to caregivers, as well to have those in their care, be in the best possible shape. Having a team of specialists can help achieve and provide greater independence leading to overall improved quality of life. 

If you want to discuss your physio-wellness goals and have concerns over special needs required, never hesitate to reach out. If we aren’t equipped to help you we can certainly point you to someone we trust who can.