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Thursday, September 6, 2012

Slamdunk Safely

After the second World War, many veterans returned with injuries that prevented them from leading the lives that they had led before the war. However, rather than allow this to stand in their way, a number of American veterans founded the sport of Wheelchair basketball as part of a program of rehabilitation.

Using very similar rules and regulations to basketball, Wheelchair basketball is every bit as intense and dramatic. The wheelchairs are specifically designed for resilience to the intense conditions seen on the court, but often last only six months. Even more significant is the risk of injury from competing in such conditions. Mouthguards are only recommended in the international rules, rather than required as mandatory wear. Without one, however, a simple fall could result in broken teeth and tongue injuries.

Even if an athlete does wear a mouth guard, how do they know that it will protect their teeth and tongue during falls and collisions? Read here for more on how drop towers could help.

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