title: The Special Olympics athlete: evaluation and clearance for participation.
abstract: Evaluating and clearing the Special Olympics athlete for participation in sports and recreational activities can be a challenging task for a primary care physician. Radiographic clearance of the cervical spine is mandatory for all athletes with Down syndrome. Regular physical activity for this special population has measurable physiologic and psychosocial benefits.
authors.forename: Richard B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Birrer
mesh_terms: D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control; D003163:Competitive Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D010821:Physicians, Family; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000592:standards; D011482:Protective Devices; D013177:Sports / Q000523:psychology*; D013178:Sports Medicine / Q000592:standards