Sport Participation by Physically and Cognitively Challenged Young Athletes

Many physically and cognitively challenged athletes participate in organized and recreational sports. Health benefits of sport participation by athletes with disabilities have been well recognized. A careful preparticipation evaluation and proper classification of athletes ensures safe sports participation by athletes with disabilities. Some conditions in these athletes, such as problems with thermoregulation, autonomic control, neurogenic bladder and bowel, latex allergy, and many associated and secondary complications deserve special consideration. This article reviews common medical issues that relate to sport participation by athletes with physical and cognitive disabilities.

There is a wide spectrum of disabilities that affect the physical and intellectual domains of athletes ( Box 1 ). It is estimated that there are more than 3 million persons with physical and cognitive disabilities who are involved in organized sports in the United States, and many more in recreational sports. Children and adolescents with disabilities are finding increasing opportunities to participate in various sport programs. The health benefits of physical activity for athletes with disabilities are well recognized.

Box 1

Amputations
Cerebral palsy
Myelomeningocele
Traumatic brain injury
Spinal cord injury
Visual impairment
Hearing impairment
Intellectual disability
Genetic syndromes
Neuromuscular disorders
Neurobehavioral disorders

Spectrum of disabilities

Participation opportunities for physically and mentally challenged athletes have increased in the past several decades, with thousands of athletes participating in organized games such as the Paralympics ( Box 2 ) and Special Olympics ( Box 3 ). The Paralympic Games include athletes with spinal cord injuries (SCIs), limb amputations, cerebral palsy, blindness, and other visual impairments. To a lesser extent, athletes with short stature, neuromuscular disorders, and learning disabilities have also participated. Athletes with intellectual disabilities participate in Special Olympics, whereas Deaf athletes participate in Deaflympics ( Box 4 ).

Box 2