A bilateral amputee is as a person who has had either both arms or both legs removed through amputation. Amputation may occur by a trauma or as a surgical procedure, and occurs in modern warfare as an injury from landmines or explosive devices. Bilateral amputation can be physically and emotionally traumatic, but it is important for the bilateral amputee to remain physically active and healthy. Many pieces of exercise equipment can be created or adapted for use by a bilateral amputee.
Swimming Prosthetics
Prosthetic legs, arms or flippers can be utilized by a bilateral amputee for swimming, among other sports. Because swimming does not involve supporting your own weight on the ground, it is a particularly appropriate form of exercise for amputees. Swimming prosthetics are waterproof and typically lighter than a human limb. Such prosthetics can allow an amputee to move through the water with great speed. In the September 2009 issue of the journal "Prosthetics and Orthotics International," physical therapy professors from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine state that athletes using prosthetic limbs are able to compete successfully in swimming, cycling and running training for competitive triathlons. According to this report, as of 2010 it is commonplace, rather than a novelty, to see amputee athletes competing with non-amputees.
Hockey Sled
A hockey sled allows athletes with bilateral leg amputation to play ice hockey. The athlete straps her lower body to a small sled and propels herself on the ice using a pair of short hockey sticks. According to SledHockey.net, the rules of sled hockey are broadly the same as USA ice hockey rules. To play sled hockey in a team or league, you must wear protective equipment including a helmet, face mask, shin and neck guards, elbow and shoulder pads, and hockey gloves. Because hockey players on sleds are closer to the level of the ice than a standing player, kidney pads are also recommended when using a hockey sleds.
Handcycle
Handcycles are bicycles which are operated with the hands rather than the feet. In this aspect, they are suitable exercise equipment for bilateral amputees who have both arms but no legs. Handcycling is also referred to as crank-cycling; according to ActiveAmp.com, handcycling is quickly gaining popularity among competitive athletes, including bilateral amputees. Handcycling is also popular as a form of recreational activity or individual cardiovascular exercise.
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