ABSTRACT
The classification of ‘les autres’ (French for ‘the others’) encompasses a range of impairment types which do not fall into the other primary classes and are not covered by specific sporting organisations. Les autres includes dwarfism, Friedreich’s ataxia, multiple sclerosis, severe burns, polio, severe forms of arthritis, arthrogryposis, osteogenesis imperfecta, congenital limb deformities (such as club foot) and muscular dystrophies. Due to their relatively small numbers, very little is known about the impact of these impairments within an exercise environment, however some valuable information can be gained from the clinical literature. This chapter describes the major impairments that comprise les autres and provides some insight into potential nutrition issues the athlete may face.
