Managing Hemophilia Sports And Hemophilia:
Selecting The Right Sport1
If you or a loved one has hemophilia, there are certain issues that you should consider when selecting a sport. Below are some questions to ask yourself or your physician to help make the decision easier.
Questions To Ask When Selecting Your Sport
Q:What is your family situation?
A:Where you live affects the types of activities you are likely to consider. You'll also want to think about the overall expense. Are the fees, costs of equipment and instruction within your budget?
Q:What's your body type?
A:Your physician can help determine which sports are best for your body type. A heavier person, for example, might enjoy swimming more than bicycling. Fortunately, there are many sports that are considered appropriate for people with hemophilia.
Q:Where are your bleeds typically located?
A:Some sports will be eliminated as you carefully assess your bleeding history and present joint condition. For example, if you have a history of ankle or knee bleeds, you probably shouldn't take up sports that require running.
Q:What are the risks?
A:For each sport, there are risks that must be taken into consideration. Your physician is the best source of advice concerning appropriate physical activities for people with hemophilia.
Q:Organized or pickup?
A:While pickup sports tend to be less competitive, they may not be as well monitored as organized sports. Organized sports are more competitive, but they are more likely to be supervised and use proper equipment.
Q:What is the skill level?
A:Some sports require more skill than others, and it's important to make sure that you are prepared physically.
Q:Is it a contact sport?
A:Just about all healthcare professionals agree that people with hemophilia should avoid rough contact sports because the risks of injury greatly outweigh the benefits.2 If you do participate in a contact sport, it's important to use protective gear during the sport.
Q:What kind of protective gear is required?
A:It's important for all people to wear the proper equipment, but particularly for people with hemophilia. Depending upon the sport, protective gear might include a helmet, mouth guard, kneepads, wrist pads, and elbow pads.
Find More Help And Resources Here
- Get an overview of hemophilia.
- Learn more about educational programs.
- Proactively manage your health insurance.
Note: Be sure to consult your physician or treatment center before beginning any exercise program or participating in sporting activities. If an injury occurs, contact your physician or treatment center immediately for the appropriate treatment.
References
- Anderson A, Forsyth A. Playing it safe: Bleeding Disorders, Sports and exercise. New York, NY. National Hemophilia Foundation. 2005.
- Destination Fitness. Canadian Hemophilia Society website. http://www.hemophilia.ca/en/support-and-education/passport-to-well-being/destination-fitness/. Accessed June 8, 2011.
