Students with Disabilities that Limit
Mobility and Dexterity

Implications of Mobility-Related Disabilities in the
Postsecondary Education Setting

Some of the disabilities that limit mobility include spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, amputation of limbs, injuries to limbs, arthritis and back injuries. There are many other physical conditions that result in limitations in mobility. A student's mobility limitations may be consistent throughout the semester or may fluctuate depending on the cause of the disability.

Physical access is one of the major concerns of students who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility. Students must learn routes to and from classes and across campus that do not present barriers. A barrier may be a stair, a curb, a narrow walkway, a heavy door, a crowded elevator, a vehicle blocking a curb cut or ramp, a sign in the middle of a walkway or a construction area. Physical barriers also include objects such as books, equipment, and laboratory materials which students must manipulate in order to complete course requirements.

It is difficult to make generalizations about the needs of students with mobility limitations. Some students may, for example, be able to stand for short periods of time, while others will not be able to stand at all. Some students may have full use of their upper limbs, while others may have minimal or no use of their upper limbs. Fatigue may also be a factor to consider since these students have to use additional effort to accomplish physical tasks.

Most students who use wheelchairs will ask for assistance if they need it. It is best not to assume automatically that assistance is required. Offer assistance if you wish, but do not insist, and accept a "no, thank you" graciously.