Paralympic sports medicine

• Today, there is an increased realization that engaging with Paralympic athletes offers the chance for healthcare professionals to work at the intersection of rehabilitation with sports and exercise medicine. The study of both injury and illness epidemiology in Paralympic sport is important, as findings may assist in the formulation of prevention strategies. A model for the systematic development of sports injury-prevention strategies has been developed and is used by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Medical Committee. Cardiac screening is recommended to start at the beginning of competitive athletic activity, usually between the ages of 12 and 14 years. There is a need for a detailed epidemiological data on head injuries and concussion in Paralympic sports, as most of the injury reports are anecdotal. When treating athletes, clinicians must closely consider the interaction between a medication's pharmacokinetics and the athlete's physiology. The chapter also discusses the effects of travel and sports nutrition for Paralympic athletes.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Idrottsvetenskap (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Sport and Fitness Sciences (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Head injuries

Long-distance travel

Paralympic sports medicine

Pharmacological management

Pre-participation cardiac screening

Sports nutrition

Publication and Content Type

kap (subject category)

ref (subject category)