Limb malformations can include:
- sections of a limb or digit missing such as a finger or toe
- limbs not in proportion to the rest of the body
- extra fingers or toes
- paralysed limbs.
Limb malformations can occur from a wide range of conditions and causes such as:
- congenital conditions which may be caused by genetic, environmental or unknown factors
- arthritis
- tumors
- injuries involving the growth centre of the bone
- injuries as a result of severe trauma such as accidents or burns.
Symptoms and characteristics
Characteristics of limb malformation may include:
- limbs not growing to expected length such as the left arm shorter than the right arm
- limbs growing longer than expected for body size
- spasticity or tightness in muscles causing contractures in limbs, for example, the elbow no longer being able to fully extend due to muscles pulling tightly over the joint
- scarring from burns causing contractures or malformed limbs
- possible amputation of parts of a limb such as the finger, forearm or foot.
Workplace adjustments and solutions
In the workplace there are various factors that would assist people with limb malformations to better manage their conditions. These include:
- a workplace assessment to ensure tasks and workstations are set up appropriately to the person’s specific needs
- the use of adaptive equipment or mechanical aids to overcome any physical restrictions caused by the limb malformation
- a manual handling assessment to ensure safe work practices are established to minimise risk of injury.
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements related to limb malformations:
References
KidsHealth 1995—2011, Birth Defects, The Nemours Foundation, online, viewed 10 November 2011, http://kidshealth.org/Search01.jsp?SearchSection=1&Mode=Search&SearchTextArea=birth%20defects%20p3.
MDA Internet 1991—2010, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 10 November 2011, http://www.mdguidelines.com/.