Carter Law Group | July 25, 2025 | Personal Injury
Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. Some start at birth, while others happen because of injuries or illnesses later on. Each can make daily life and work a challenge. Knowing the most common disabilities can help you figure out what kind of support or benefits might be available to you.
Here are 10 of the top disabilities Fresno residents face today:
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders make up the most commonly applied for disabilities when it comes to Social Security benefits.
These disorders include conditions like:
- Arthritis
- Back injuries
- Joint problems
Many workplace injuries are musculoskeletal. They often cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement, making simple tasks like standing or sitting feel impossible.
2. Mood Disorders
Mental health struggles can be just as disabling as physical issues. Common mood disorders include depression, bipolar disorder, and major anxiety. These conditions can often impact relationships, focus, and work life.
3. Nervous System Disorders
Neurological conditions affect the brain and nerves.
Examples include conditions like:
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s disease
These disorders can often disrupt movement, speech, and memory.
4. Intellectual Disabilities
Intellectual disabilities affect thinking, learning, and social skills. Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and severe developmental delays are all common examples of these types of conditions. People with intellectual disabilities may need extra support to complete school, hold jobs, or manage daily tasks.
5. Circulatory System Disorders
Heart and blood vessel problems can cause lasting disabilities.
Any of the following conditions can fall under this umbrella:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Chronic heart failure
After a stroke, many people struggle with speech or moving parts of their body.
6. Psychotic Disorders
Conditions such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder can distort reality and require long-term care. They can cause hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. They often interfere with a person’s ability to function in daily life and may require a combination of medication, therapy, and support services.
7. Other Mental Disorders
Other mental health concerns beyond mood or psychotic disorders can still be disabling. This includes conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and severe generalized anxiety. Any of these disorders can limit your ability to work or handle daily life.
8. Respiratory Disorders
Breathing problems can turn everyday tasks into major challenges.
Common conditions include:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Severe asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
These issues can keep people from engaging in physical activity and often require constant treatment.
9. Cancer
Some cancers and their treatments can leave lasting impacts.
This can be especially true for these types:
- Brain cancer
- Lung cancer
- Bone cancer
The chemotherapy or surgery required to treat them can cause fatigue, pain, and cognitive issues.
10. Sensory Impairments
Losing sight or hearing can significantly affect independence. Such disabilities can lead to trouble communicating, difficulty moving around, and fewer job opportunities. Even with hearing aids or glasses, daily tasks may still be challenging to navigate.
Other Significant Disabilities to Keep in Mind
Beyond these top 10 conditions, many other conditions can lead to severe, lasting disabilities in California. It’s helpful to stay aware of these possibilities so you or your loved ones can seek help early.
Other disabilities that can require significant support include:
- Diabetes complications
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Severe injuries from pedestrian or car accidents
Recognizing these challenges sooner rather than later can lead to a prompt diagnosis, which can mean faster treatment, better accommodations, and improved quality of life.
Navigating Life With Disabilities
Disabilities can often shape a person’s daily life, but they don’t have to take away independence or hope. Knowing the most common disabilities and where to find support can empower individuals to take charge of their health and future.
With the right resources, planning, and care, it’s possible to keep moving forward with life and adjust to the changes a disability can bring.
Contact the Fresno Personal Injury Lawyers at Carter Law Group for Help Today
If you’ve been injured by someone else’s negligence, Carter Law Group can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Fresno personal injury attorney.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Fresno, CA
Carter Law Group
2445 Capitol St #105, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
(559) 485-1212
