Athletes with Cerebral Palsy, Brain Injury, or Survivors of Stroke
| In order to assure that
each athlete (individuals with cerebral palsy and survivors of brain
injuries and strokes) is competing against those with similar abilities,
the Classification System was developed.
The Classification System is used in individual sports, including track & field and cycling - where athletes compete only against other athletes with their same classification. In team sports athletes are grouped in divisions according to classification. The following is a general guideline of what each class represents and that in order to receive an official classification for competition, an athlete needs to be classified by a recognized NDSA classification team. Information regarding this process can be obtained by contacting the NDSA National Office. |
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Class 1
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Severe spastic and/or athetoid with poor functional
range of motion and poor functional strength in all extremities and
torso. Dependent on motorized wheelchair or assistance for mobility.
Unable to functionally propel a manual wheelchair. |
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Class 2 (Lower)
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An evident degree of function of 1 or 2 lower extremities which allows a person to propel his/her wheelchair, automatically qualifies them as a Class 2 Lower, unless upper extremity function is more efficient. Often an athlete can ambulate a short distance with assistance. |
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Class 2 (Upper)
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Severe to moderate limitation. If arm and hand function
is as described in Class 1 profile, then lower extremities will determine
whether Class 2 is more appropriate. A Class 2 Upper may not have the cylindrical or spherical grasp, but can demonstrate sufficient dexterity to manipulate and throw a ball. Throwing motions must be tested for effects on hand function. Wheelchair propulsion with upper extremities is also demonstrable, but shows moderate to severe limitations in active range of motion and control of pushing stroke. |
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Class 3
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Lower limbs have moderate to severe involvement. Good
functional strength and minimal control problems in upper extremities and torso. Uses a wheelchair. |
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Class 4
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Moderate to severe diplegic or hemiplegic who chooses
to ambulate rather than use a wheelchair in regular daily activities. This individual may require the use of assistive devices in walking beyond short distances, but not necessarily when standing or throwing. A shift off-center of gravity tends to cause the athlete to over balance. |
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Class 5-A
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Moderate to severe involvement in one or
both lower extremities which may necessitate assistive devices for
walking and running. Assistive devices are allowed for track competition. |
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Class 5-B
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Some moderate to minimal limitation in upper extremities may be seen, particularly when throwing, but strength is within normal limits. Does not use assistive devices for track competition. |
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Class 6
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Moderate to severe quadriplegic. Ambulates without walking
aids. Coordination problems present. Balance problems when running
or throwing. Has greater upper extremity involvement. |
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Class 7
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Moderate to minimal hemiplegic. Good functional ability
in non-affected side. Walks/runs with noted limp. |
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Class 8
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Minimally affected. May have minimal coordination problems.
Able to run and jump freely. Has good balance. |
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