Classification system for ineligible impairments in Paracanoe

Introduction: The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has stressed the importance of sport-specific classification systems to manage the impact of impairment on competition outcomes. In Paracanoe (canoeing) there are three deficiencies that are considered eligible for the International Canoe Federation (ICF) and that determine six sport classes, three in Kayak “KL1-KL2-KL3” and three in Va’a “VL1-VL2-VL3”. Material and method: Based on the technical model of paleo in conventional athletes, muscle balances are performed in all ranges of motion, goniometry and specific balance tests in the lower and upper limbs and trunk for paracanoe practitioners (paracanoes) who present ICF ineligible deficiencies. Muscle strength is scored from 0 to 2, as determined by the ICF classification model, and the points are grouped into a cluster. The ICF (Special) ineligible impairment classification system groups into eight sporting classes according to the score obtained called “KS1-KS2-KS3-KS4-VS1-VS2-VS3-VS4”. Results: Data were collected from 346 athletes: 107 had impairments eligible for the ICF and 239 had impairments not eligible in the international system. By means of a specific assessment of muscle strength in athletes with ineligible impairments, these athletes were grouped into eight competition classes. Conclusions: Evaluating non-eligible deficiencies with a specific classification system allows for the separation of Special sports classes, taking into account the functional impact that each of them has on paracanoeing. Discussion: By carrying out specific tests on Paracanoe athletes with ineligible disabilities, data can be collected on the impact that each impairment has on this sport.