WHAT IS A PHYSICAL DISABILITY?

INSIGHTS FROM THE UNITED SPINAL ASSOCIATION

United Spinal Association has focused on the quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries/disorders for over 75 years. The association advocates for all wheelchair users and those using assistive mobility devices – no matter the underlying cause.

Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis and related inflammatory conditions are the most common physical disabilities resulting from a medical condition post-birth.

Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability from childbirth.

Spinal cord injury is the most common physical disability resulting from traumatic injury, though some SCIs can result from a medical condition.

More than one in four people (27%) have some level of disability that impacts their daily lives, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

This includes physical, visual, hearing and cognitive disabilities. 

That means there are roughly 90 million people in the United States who have a disability.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey estimates that at least 7% of Americans have a physical disability. 

U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics prove that people with physical disabilities are by far the most under- and unemployed of all marginalized groups in America.