Prosthetics in Sports: Fair or Unfair?

     Adaptive technology in sports is a fascinating topic, but it is also a topic that raises many questions about fairness, accessibility, and how we define fair competition. On one hand, it’s incredible from a scientific and medical standpoint to see how technology like running blades or specialized equipment can level the playing field for athletes with disabilities, allowing them to compete at the highest levels. It’s inspiring to watch athletes push the boundaries of what’s possible and challenge traditional ideas of physical limitations. And it also serves to show other disabled athletes just what they can be capable of with the right aids. On the other hand, I can’t help but wonder about the broader implications, especially for athletes from disadvantaged nations who might not have access to the same resources. Because of this, the conversation moves from abled vs disabled, to privileged vs the unprivileged. 

    The cost of adaptive technology is a huge barrier for many disabled people. High-tech prosthetics and specialized adaptive equipment are expensive, time consuming to make, and maintaining them can be just as costly. For athletes in developing countries, or athletes who may not have access to specialized care, this creates an uneven playing field where only those with financial support can compete at the highest level. It’s not fair, and it risks widening the gap between athletes from wealthy and impoverished nations.To me, this goes against the entire vibe of the Paralympic games. I think international sports organizations need to step up and address this issue. Maybe through funding programs or partnerships that ensure athletes everywhere have access to the tools they need to compete. Why shouldn't they invest in athletes that may very well one day be competing in these games?

    As for whether athletes using adaptive technology should compete in able-bodied events, I feel like it depends on the sport and the specific technology. In some cases, like running blades, the technology seems to restore functionality rather than provide an unfair advantage. This is shown in the video “Are Running Blades Cheating? The Biomechanics of Running Prosthetics.” Where we go in depth about the actual science behind running blades compared to their organic counterparts.  But I also understand why some people might worry about it tipping the scales in certain situations. That’s why I think it’s important to have clear, science-based guidelines to evaluate these cases individually. Transparency is key to maintaining the integrity of competition while still being inclusive.

    Ultimately, I believe adaptive technology has the potential to make sports more inclusive and accurate, but it has to be implemented thoughtfully, with all of these issues in mind. Sports organizations should strive to ensure that athletes from all backgrounds have a fair shot at competing, and that the technology itself doesn’t create new inequalities. By facing these issues, we can continue to innovate in adaptive sport while staying true to the sportsman-like values of fairness and inclusivity that make sports so powerful in the first place.