What Is Known About Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating in Individuals With Physical Disabilities? A Narrative Review

Individuals with physical disabilities may be at a high risk for developing eating disorders/disordered eating (ED/DE) and body image concerns yet are often excluded from research in this field. This has created a critical gap in our understanding of eating patterns and body image concerns among individuals with disabilities, which may impact physical and mental health outcomes long term. This narrative review explores existing literature on ED/DE and body image in individuals with physical disabilities and identifies unique factors that may increase risk. Time-sensitive, developmentally appropriate and specialized treatment options are needed to support this population.