Extensão clínica em habilitação e reabilitação de crianças e adolescentes com lesão medular por meio do esporte adaptado: relato de experiência

Abstract

Introduction: Physiotherapy plays an important role in improving functionality and quality of life for people with disabilities, utilizing the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) to address various multidimensional aspects. Adapted sports emerge as a powerful tool to promote inclusion, autonomy, and personal development. The physiotherapy education based on the ICF, coupled with participation in university extension projects, provides the physiotherapist with a practical and reflective understanding of their role, especially in interactions with young people with spinal cord injuries, enriching both their theoretical and practical knowledge in the field. Objective: This work consists of an experiential report aiming to share personal experiences through involvement in an adapted sports project aimed at children and teenagers with spinal cord injuries.Methodology: The study occurred over nine months at the Anita Garibaldi Education and Health Research Center (CER ISD), focusing on children and teenagers with spinal cord injuries. The Adapted Sports project, a collaboration between CER ISD and UFRN, aimed to promote adapted physical activities for young people with disabilities, overcoming challenges and barriers to sports inclusion. The multidisciplinary team developed sports activities, aiming to offer equitable opportunities for all. Data collection involved observations, direct participation, and assistance to participants, with reports as the primary recording tool. It was grounded in extensive research to contextualize the experienced scenario, adopting a narrative and descriptive approach, framed within qualitative research, while preserving participants' confidentiality. Results: Observation and analysis of the report highlighted the importance of understanding spina bifida, the necessary multidisciplinary approach, the fundamental role of adapted sports activities in rehabilitation, contributions to social inclusion, the challenges faced by these individuals, and the positive impact on academic and professional development. Conclusion: The experience with adapted sports not only promoted physical activity but also drove social, emotional, and cognitive development in children and teenagers. Although not a concrete measure of improvement, this perception emphasizes the positive impact of adapted sports in these areas. Besides contributing to academic formation, this experience proves valuable for professional development. For future research, it is recommended to use additional recording methods and measurement instruments for a more detailed analysis of the activities' impact on participants' lives.