|
Founded to evaluate problems of the feet, ankles, lower extremity biomechanics, as well as checking for proper shoe and sock gear, Fit Feet is one of the newest Healthy Athlete disciplines, developed through Special Olympics collaboration with the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM) and the Federation of International Podiatrists (FIP). Although officially launched at Special Olympics 2003 World Summer Games, Fit Feet was first introduced in 2002.
Many Special Olympics athletes suffer from foot and ankle pain or deformities that impair their performance. Also, athletes are not always fitted with the best shoes and socks for their particular sport. Volunteer health care professionals screen athletes' feet and ankles for deformities, and also check for proper shoes and socks. They are provided with community referrals as needed and athletes, coaches and families are educated on the proper shoes and socks. A series of pamphlets to provide guidance on general foot care have been developed with Special Olympics athletes in mind and are available at each Fit Feet screening.
As at each Special Olympics Healthy Athletes screening, data is gathered, then aggregated and assessed to assist in policy and advocacy for improved health care for all Special Olympics athletes. All Healthy Athlete screening areas maintain the confidentiality of the data and the privacy of every athlete.
Dr. Patrick Nunan, former AAPSM President and Global Clinical Advisor; Raynell Redd, Special Olympics Fit Feet Manager; and Rita Yates, Executive Director of AAPSM work together to manage this initiative. Practicing in the field of podiatry for more than 20 years, Dr. Nunan has special interests in geriatric, pediatric, diabetic, arthritis, surgery, sports medicine, biomechanics and orthotics.
For more information on Fit Feet, contact David Evangelista, Director, Health Programs, at +1 (202) 824-0314 or devangelista@specialolympics.org
|
