Orthopedic impairment
Last updated
Under IDEA, orthopedic impairment is a severe physical impairment, such as cerebral palsy, that adversely affects a student's educational performance.
Topic: Disability categories and conditions
In plain terms
The category includes impairments present from birth, those caused by disease, and those from other causes such as amputations, fractures or burns that cause contractures. Many students in this category have typical or above-average cognitive skills, and their needs are about physical access: moving around school, writing, using materials and taking part in PE.
How it shows up in an IEP
Supports often include physical and occupational therapy, adaptive equipment, assistive technology and accessibility planning. Goals focus on access and independence, such as using a keyboard alternative or managing transitions between classes in the time available.
Example
A seventh grader with cerebral palsy uses a power wheelchair and speech-to-text. A goal targets independently navigating to four classes and setting up the laptop within 3 minutes of arrival.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.8(c)(8).
Related terms
- Physical therapy (school-based)School-based physical therapy helps students move safely and independently around school, with goals for mobility, balance, strength and access.
- Occupational therapy (school-based)School-based occupational therapy helps students take part in school tasks, such as handwriting, using tools, self-care and managing sensory needs.
- Adaptive equipmentAdaptive equipment is gear that helps a student with a disability sit, move, eat, write or take part in activities more independently.
- Assistive technology deviceAn assistive technology device is any item, equipment or software used to increase, maintain or improve the abilities of a student with a disability.
- Adapted physical educationAdapted physical education is physical education specially designed for a student who cannot fully take part in general PE, even with accommodations.
On IEP Atlas
- Gross Motor Skills IEP goals
- School-Related Independence IEP goals
- IEP goals for orthopedic impairment
This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.