Abasiophilia, considered by some to be a type of paraphilia, is a sexual attraction to disabled people who use orthopaedic appliances such as leg braces, orthopedic casts, spinal braces or wheelchairs. The etymology is from the Greek language abasios, meaning "lameness". The attraction can be very strong. For some, it can be a source of guilt, as the combination of sex and disability are still considered taboo in most societies. It is not uncommon for those affected to want to use orthopaedic appliances themselves. The majority of people who do find this a source of relief from what can be an overpowering desire.
It is classed as a form of disability fetishism which starts in early childhood, usually long before puberty is reached. There is normally a trigger event in early childhood involving disabled children or adults. It is most common in those who were children in the 1940s, 50s and 60s when Polio was common and there were lots of people using leg braces to be seen. |
