The Impact of Frame Running on Quality of Life in Young Athletes With Mobility Limitations

Abstract

PurposeThe para-athletic sport Frame Running is developed for persons with neurological impairments causing severe limitations of walking ability. Participating in sports can contribute to a better quality of life (QoL). It is unknown if participation in Frame Running contributes to QoL in children with mobility limitations. This study aims to explore the changes in QoL in children and youth who started Frame Running.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study amongst young Frame Running athletes with mobility limitations due to various underlying causes, aged 6–19 years, who are members of one of the Frame Running groups in the Netherlands. For 62 athletes, parents completed the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS) questionnaire (subscales: competence, adaptability, and self-esteem). For six athletes, parents were interviewed to obtain more in-depth insight in the perceived changes in the QoL of their children.ResultsParents (of 58% boys, mean age 12 years 4 months; SD 3 years 3 months; 52% supported walkers) reported a significant positive change on all three subscales of the PIADS questionnaire since their children started Frame Running. Most change was experienced in the items performance, the ability to participate, happiness and self-confidence. Quotes of the parents who were interviewed elucidated these changes.ConclusionFrame Running increased QoL in young athletes with a mobility limitation. Frame Running may therefore be advised for these children and youth to improve QoL.

La imagen de las personas deportistas con discapacidad física en Instagram a través de la Neurocomunicación

“…Esta visión se engloba dentro de la teoría crítica de la discapacidad y es consecuencia de la discriminación que siguen sufriendo las personas con discapacidad o ableism (Campbell, 2009). A pesar de ello, los deportistas con discapacidad suelen mostrar una mayor salud física y emocional frente a las personas con discapacidad que no practican deporte (Wilhite y Shank, 2009), tanto en términos de felicidad como de autoconfianza ( Van-Schie et al, 2022).…”

What Do We Know about Frame Running? A Narrative Review

“…Additionally, FR practice proved to be feasible even in people with severe CP, as well as being able to generate enthusiasm and good mobility. However, FR practitioners report discomfort related to the saddle and difficulties in handling the handlebars (16). Considering that PETRA allows adjustments or additional accessories, it is possible to do adjustments to provide a more adequate and safe practice for the practitioners' level of functionality.…”