In 1997, Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® began offering free health screenings and education to Special Olympics athletes in a welcoming, fun environment. The impact of these screenings on the health and wellness of Special Olympics athletes around the world is significant. Healthy Athletes has discovered undetected health problems, alleviated pain and provided health services that otherwise would not be available. Special Olympics offers health screenings in eight disciplines:
Provides podiatric screenings to evaluate ankles, feet, lower extremity biomechanics, and proper shoe and sock gear to participating athletes.
Provides free screenings and education on balance, flexibility and strength by physical therapists.
Provides education and resources for healthy life choices including sun safety, tobacco cessation, and healthy diet.
Provides free ear and hearing screenings designed to ensure proper audiological care for participating Special Olympics athletes.
Offers the physical exam that athletes need prior to participating in Special Olympics sports programming.
Provides free vision screening and assistance to athletes in need of protective eye wear or even new glasses.
Provides dental screenings, free toothbrushes, teeth cleaning tips, and mouthguards as needed.
Provides resources to help athletes with coping skills and strategies to manage stress in both competition and in life.