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Affiliation
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Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden. |
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Abstract
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BACKGROUND: With increased participation in Paralympic sport, the burden of sports-related injuries and illnesses may increase. However, there is limited knowledge about the epidemiology of sports-related injuries and illnesses in Paralympic sport [SRIIPS].
OBJECTIVE: To describe among Swedish Paralympic athletes the 1-yr retrospective period prevalence of severe SRIIPS, the point prevalence of all SRIIPS, and to examine differences in prevalence proportions between athletes with different impairments, behaviors and sport characteristics.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Swedish Paralympic Programme. PARTICIPANTS: 104 Paralympic athletes with visual, physical and intellectual impairment.
METHODS: An eHealth application adapted to Paralympic athletes was used to collect self-report data on existing and previous SRIIPS, as well as impairment, behavior and sport characteristics. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: 1-yr retrospective period prevalence and point prevalence.
RESULTS: The period prevalence of severe injuries was 31% [95% CI 23-40] and the point prevalence 32% [95% CI 24-41]. The period prevalence of severe illnesses was 14% [95% CI 9-23], and 14% of the athletes [95% CI 8-22] reported a current illness. More severe injuries [P = <.05] were reported by athletes aged 18-25 yr, not using assistive device, having pain during sport, using analgesics, continuing training injured and feeling guilt when missing exercise. Athletes that reported a previous severe injury, having pain in daily life and during sport, using analgesics and being upset when unable to exercise, had a higher prevalence of current injuries [P = <.05]. Being female, reporting previous severe illness, using prescribed medication and feeling anxious/depressed were features associated with an ongoing illnesses [P = <.05].
CONCLUSION: Paralympic athletes report a high prevalence of SRIIPS. Behavioral and psychological aspects as well as pain and use of medication appear to be associated with the occurrence of SRIIPS. The results infer that factors leading to SRIIPS are complex and call for a broad biopsychosocial approach when developing preventive measures. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Language: en |