Paralympians with spinal cord injuries 'dangerously boosting blood pressure'RSS Feed

A number of Paralympic athletes with spinal cord injuries have been cheating the rules by deploying various prohibited techniques to get ahead of the competition, it is claimed.

One risky practice is a method known as boosting, in which competitors raise their blood pressure prior to events.

There are different ways to do this, including squeezing their catheters or even compressing their testicles in order to create a spike in blood pressure and temporarily increase their resting heart rate.

Some athletes have even been known to break their own toe, according to reports, in order achieve the effect.

Boosting carries a risk of triggering a stroke or heart attack, but it is difficult to enforce the ban of the practice.

Meanwhile, the first integrated spinning class in the UK for people with spinal cord injuries has been launched by the Aspire National Training Centre in Stanmore.

Medical News Today reports that wheelchair users can take advantage of the Krankcycle, which is located alongside traditional spinning bikes to allow disabled and non-disabled gym users to participate in classes together.

Serious Law, award winning spinal injury law firm

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