Parasports for cerebral palsy: Thinking and ‘prescribing’ beyond the Paralympics

Abstract

The landscape of care for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) has evolved far beyond ‘fixing’ impairments toward a life course, biopsychosocial approach aimed at enhanced functioning. Parasports remain an underutilized tool to encourage and facilitate physical activity achievement while filling gaps in traditional medical and therapeutic thinking about this new way of delivering services. This narrative review synthesizes evidence spanning multiple sports and gross motor function levels, where parasports demonstrate measurable benefits across all domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Given the rich array of parasport options, it remains challenging to determine appropriate recommendations across the spectrum of function seen in individuals with CP and related disabilities. We outline sport eligibility based on gross motor function and available adaptations. Rather than viewing parasport as an option for ‘athletic’ children, evidence supports treating it as an essential element of comprehensive care—uniquely combining therapeutic physical activity benefits with social inclusion, identity development, and community integration.