Biomechanical analyses of the performance of Paralympians: from foundation to elite level

A biomechanical analysis of sports performance provides an objective method of determining performance of a particular sporting technique. In particular, it aims to add to the understanding of the mechanisms influencing performance, characterization of athletes and provide insights into injury predisposition. While the performance in sport of able-bodied athletes is well recognized in the literature, less information and understanding are known on the complexity, constraints and demands placed on the body of an individual with a disability. This article provides a dialogue that outlines scientific issues of the performance analysis of multi-level athletes with a disability, including Paralympians. Four integrated themes are explored, the first of which focuses on how biomechanics can contribute to the understanding of sports performance in athletes with a disability and how it may be used as an evidence-based tool. This latter point questions the potential for a possible cultural shift led by the emergence of user-friendly instruments. The second theme briefly discusses the role of reliability of sports performance and addresses the debate of two-dimensional and three-dimensional analyses. The third theme addresses key biomechanical parameters and provides guidance to clinicians and coaches on the approaches adopted using the biomechanical/sports performance analysis for an athlete with a disability starting out, to the emerging and elite Paralympian. For completeness of this discourse, the final theme is based on the controversial issues on the role of assisted devices, and the inclusion of Paralympians into able-bodied sport. All combined, this dialogue highlights the intricate relationship between biomechanics and training of individuals with a disability. Furthermore, it illustrates the complexity of modern training of athletes, which can only lead to a better appreciation of the performances to be delivered in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Clinical relevance Biomechanical analysis can play a fundamental role in optimizing the performance of an athlete with a disability. Clinicians should be aware and understand the mechanisms that may influence performance and have an appreciation of the factors that may predispose such athletes to injury.

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