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Paralympic Medical Report
Despite their disabilities, Paralympic athletes had a lower incidence of injury than their able-bodied counterparts who competed in Salt Lake' s winter games.
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(Apr. 2, 2002)------The Paralympic Games produced 1,013 visits to 10 special medical clinics set up for the event, according to Intermountain Health Care.
With only 430 athletes competing at the Paralympics as well as considerably fewer spectators at the venues, less cases were expected.
The few medical studies that have been done of disabled athletes show they have a lower incidence of injury than able-bodied athletes. They're more apt to wear protective gear, and they don't have as far to fall if they compete while sitting down.
The highest volume of patients treated was at Athletes' Village with 547 cases, followed by the E Center with 213. Snowbasin crews treated 72 patients, while Soldier Hollow personnel saw 60 cases. Mobile medical teams treated 45 patients while circulating among crowds at the venues.
The top five most common medical conditions treated during the Paralympics were:
- Respiratory infections
- Eye injury, irritation, or vision needs
- Sprains and strains
- Dental needs
- Physical therapy needs
A total of 18 patients were transferred to hospitals. Only one athlete was admitted for care.
Olympic Medical Report
