Abstract des Autors

The objective of this article is to discuss the role of sports participation (quad rugby) for improving and maintaining the physical capacity during and after rehabilitation of persons with cervical spinal cord injuries (tetraplegia). The low physical capacity of persons with tetraplegia may lead to a high physical strain in daily life. This can lead to overloading situations and an increased risk for secondary health problems, like cardiovascular diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Research results show that an active lifestyle, such as participating in quad rugby, may prevent deterioration of the physical capacity after rehabilitation. At this moment, only little is known about the effects of sports participation. Cross-sectional studies show an improved physical capacity and blood-risk profile of coronary heart diseases in active versus inactive persons with tetraplegia. Further research on optimal training methods for persons with a tetraplegia is required to formulate guidelines for training programs in rehabilitation and sports. Verf.-Referat