Wheelchair lawn tennis, a dynamic adaptation of the traditional sport, embodies inclusivity and athleticism on equal footing. Athletes in wheelchairs showcase remarkable agility, precision, and strategic prowess, challenging conventional perceptions of physical limitations. The sport not only fosters a competitive spirit, but also promotes camaraderie and resilience within the disabled community. Moreover, the integration of physiotherapy services into wheelchair lawn tennis enhances athletes’ performance and well-being. Physiotherapists play a vital role in optimizing players’ mobility, strength, and flexibility, thereby mitigating the risk of injuries and facilitating peak athletic performance. Through a holistic approach encompassing training, rehabilitation, and injury prevention, physiotherapy empowers wheelchair athletes to excel on the court and embrace their full potential, epitomizing the indomitable spirit of human achievement.
AITA Wheelchair National Tennis Championship 2023 was held by the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) at the RK Khanna Stadium from July 27 – 30, 2023. The tournament was inaugurated by the esteemed BJP Leader Mr Satish Upadhyay, DLTA administrative head Ms Richa Bakshi along with other officials of DLTA. NRF was privileged to be associated with the DLTA as their official physiotherapy service provider for the tournament.
A warm up session was organized for all players as a proactive measure; this included mobility and stretching exercises mainly targeting the shoulder and trunk muscles, which are more prone to sprain and strain during the game.
The first day went well with all players fully energized and motivated, barring a minor incident when one of the lead players had severe cramps that limited movement. The seemingly emergent condition was quickly resolved using ORS (oral rehydration salt) and ice packs, with the player jumping back to the field in less than 6 minutes.
It is important to remember that these players are not professionals who practise in the nets as a way of life, in order to keep their muscles and body toned and exercised regularly. These are courageous men and women who have willed themselves to keep pace with their passions, disabilities notwithstanding. Therefore, the first day’s vigorous wheeling around resulted in sore arms and shoulders, and blistered palms caused through continuous friction against moving wheels.
Mr D Mariappan from Chennai and Mr Tejpal Yadav from Delhi had their palms blistered; the pain spasm travelled to the right side of their shoulders and cervical muscles. NRF’s sports therapists bandaged their blisters, used MFR (myofascial release) and trigger point release techniques to those experiencing spasm and muscle tightness. This offered much solace to the players who continued with equal vigour and energy for the rest of the tournament.
As judgement day closed in and winners were soon to be declared, V Shekhar Veeraswamy and K Kartik started early on to beat the July heat and humidity, with Kartik racing to win the tournament. DLTA expressed its gratitude to NRF for their exemplary professionalism in providing the highest standards of treatment modalities and motivating players of all teams.
https://www.thehindu.com/sport/karthik-karunakaran-kp-shilpa-triumph/article67138760.ece
