Article

Podiatric conditions are frequently seen in persons with intellectual disabilities. Unfortunately,
many are not detected or addressed. This study attempts to determine the prevalence of a variety
of selected podiatric conditions in Special Olympics athletes and compare the findings to studies of a
similarly matched general population.
Methods: Screenings from 1580 Special Olympics athletes participating in a sampling of United States
competitions in 2004­2006 were used for the analysis. The athletes voluntarily underwent a foot screening
which followed the standardized Special Olympics Fit Feet protocol.
Results: The mostcommonlyidentified conditions included overpronated gait, abducted gait, restriction in
both the ankle and the first metatarsal phalangeal joint, pes planus, metatarsus adductus, brachymetatarsia,
hallux abducto valgus, onychomycosis, onychocryptosis and tinea pedis.
Discussion/Conclusion: The prevalence of all the structural conditions was notably higher than a similarly
matched general population and both conditions and biomechanical/gait findings associated with ligamentous
laxity like pes planus and hallux abducto valgus had especially high prevalence rates. Restricted
motion in the ankle and first metatarsal phalangeal joint was surprising and may indicate some athletes
have intellectual disabilities with contractures.
The higher rates of dermatophyte related conditions may reflect increased exposure from the athletic
competition environment, immunocompromise, issues with hygiene or both. Higher rates of onychocryptosis
in the athletes may be due to ill fitting shoes and/or hygiene issues.

Langue : ANGLAIS