OH in the context of disability stands for Orthopedically Handicapped. This term generally refers to individuals with physical disabilities affecting their bones, joints, or muscles.
Understanding Orthopedic Handicap
An orthopedic handicap can stem from a variety of causes, leading to limitations in movement, posture, or physical functioning. These causes can be:
- Congenital: Present from birth.
- Acquired: Resulting from injury, illness, or other factors later in life.
Examples of Orthopedic Impairments
Orthopedic impairments can include, but are not limited to:
- Amputations: Loss of a limb or part of a limb.
- Cerebral Palsy: A neurological disorder affecting muscle movement and coordination.
- Muscular Dystrophy: A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord, often resulting in paralysis.
- Bone and Joint Disorders: Conditions such as arthritis, scoliosis, or osteogenesis imperfecta.
Government Regulations
In India, government regulations and policies often use the term "Orthopedically Handicapped" (OH) when referring to individuals with these types of disabilities for purposes of reservation in jobs and educational institutions. For example, as stated in the provided reference, a percentage of posts are reserved for persons with disability, including those categorized as OH, provided they have a disability of at least 40%.
