ABSTRACT
Musculoskeletal disorders are among the commonest causes of physical disability, particularly in older people. Trauma and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis are the commonest causes in young adults, while in older people musculoskeletal disorders, stroke, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders are the main causes of physical disability in the UK. Support systems are critical to people with disabilities. They include family and friends, as well as money and access to services. The patient unit - family, friends and carers - should be considered as a whole. Disability is a team issue. It involves the whole patient unit as well as teams of professionals, practice nurse, physiotherapist, district nurses and other supporting staff. Disabilities are often hidden, and some people are distressed by the fact that their peer group or others think that they are perfectly healthy. Dealing with people with disabilities is both challenging and exciting.
