Which statement best defines an orthopedic impairment?

Which statement best defines an orthopedic impairment?

• A. A mental health disorder
• B. A physical impairment that adversely affects a student's academic performance
• C. A sensory impairment
• D. A temporary injury with no long-term effect

Answer: (D)

The concept being tested is how orthopedic impairment is defined in educational settings. An orthopedic impairment is a physical condition affecting the bones, joints, limbs, or muscles that impairs movement or function and, crucially, has an adverse impact on a student’s learning and school performance. It’s not a mental health disorder, nor a sensory impairment, and it isn’t simply a temporary injury with no lasting effects. Examples include cerebral palsy, amputations or limb differences, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, or severe congenital conditions that affect mobility. Because the key criterion is the effect on educational performance, such conditions may require accommodations and related services to help the student participate in, and succeed in, school.

The concept being tested is how orthopedic impairment is defined in educational settings. An orthopedic impairment is a physical condition affecting the bones, joints, limbs, or muscles that impairs movement or function and, crucially, has an adverse impact on a student’s learning and school performance. It’s not a mental health disorder, nor a sensory impairment, and it isn’t simply a temporary injury with no lasting effects. Examples include cerebral palsy, amputations or limb differences, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, or severe congenital conditions that affect mobility. Because the key criterion is the effect on educational performance, such conditions may require accommodations and related services to help the student participate in, and succeed in, school.