On this episode of The O&P Check-in: an SPS Podcast, we spoke with Ryan Fann, CP, co-founder of Reform Prosthetics and Amputee Blade Runners, to learn how they are helping para-athletes reach their goals.
The following includes an excerpt from our conversation, edited for length and clarity. Click here to listen to the full interview.
The O&P Check-in: an SPS Podcast unpacks trends and stories from the tight-knit community of O&P professionals. From patient care to technology, best practices, and regulations, this podcast features topics that help you stay current.
How have you seen parasports evolve since the 2004 Paralympics when you were involved?
There’s a lot more support now that the US Paralympics and US Olympic Committees have combined. The resources devoted to each are becoming more equal. When I competed in track at the 2004 Paralympics, athletes' quarterly training stipends were based on meeting certain standards. They were five to 10 percent of what non-disabled Olympic athletes received. I understand it; it’s based on economics. Fewer people were watching the Paralympics at that time. From 2003 to now, more people are aware of the Paralympics. There are far more resources—the funding and support are much better.
What are the unique challenges high-level athletes with limb differences might face that people aren’t aware of?
One of the biggest things is determining what technology will serve their needs best. Ultimately, the user must be in peak condition, so you can’t rely on equipment to compensate for a lack of mobility, range of motion, strength, or cardio fitness. If you only focus on the prosthesis, you will miss key components. You also need to have a good coach.
What innovations would you like to see for the adaptive sports community in the next decade?
You can have a Ferrari, but what's the purpose if you don't know how to drive it? I would like to see improvements in how we manage residual limb health. I’d also like to see innovative solutions to mitigate moisture management issues. I remember being at the Chula Vista training center and seeing folks having to sit down after each lap to take their liner off because they were pouring sweat. There’s a lot of room for improvement there, though it’s challenging to address.
To hear the entire conversation, click here:
Learn more about Ryan’s work at Reform Prosthetics and Amputee Blade Runners.
