Id 61
Topic Specific Condition & Disability
Main Speaker Angela Palomba Italy
Co Speakers
Attendees 50
Extra Fees

Participating in sports can offer numerous benefits to individuals with disabilities, including physical fitness, social interaction, and mental well-being. The participation of individuals with disabilities in international sports, particularly through the Paralympic Games, is a profound testament to resilience and determination. However, various medical and physical barriers can impact participation. For athletes with intellectual disabilities, classification can be particularly challenging, as it requires an accurate assessment of their cognitive and physical abilities relative to their peers.
Misunderstandings about the capabilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities may lead to underrepresentation in competitive sports. Physical disabilities also present unique barriers, such as accessibility issues related to facilities, equipment, and transportation. Athletes may struggle to find appropriate adaptive sports equipment or tailored training opportunities. Moreover, lack of funding and resources for specialized programs can deter others from participation in sport. For athletes with abnormal autonomic control, conditions affecting involuntary bodily functions add further complexities.
These athletes may face health risks during intense physical activities due to compromised ability to regulate body temperature, blood pressure, or heart rate.
Consequently, tailored training regimens and vigilant medical supervision may be required but can be difficult to access and implement. Addressing these barriers is crucial not only for improved classification in international competitions but also for fostering an inclusive environment where all athletes, regardless of their disability, can thrive and showcase their talents on the world stage. Maintaining the health of athletes with disabilities is a role physiatrists are called to play.
In this workshop, we bring together Paralympic and recreational athletes who share unique insights on health and sport with experts who have witnessed the training of paraathletes in all levels of competition, raised awareness of systemic complications, and addressed athlete mental well-being and gender bias among other areas. The workshop aims to create a comprehensive understanding of barriers and solutions for athletes with disabilities, highlighting the impact of recent advances in technology and leveraging expertise from both athletes and medical professionals to improve safety in sport and inspire/educate participants.