S4 (classification)
[10][11][12] Because of the potential for balance issues related to having an amputation, during weight training, amputees are encouraged to use a spotter when lifting more than 15 pounds (6.8 kg).
To keep their oxygen consumption rate similar to people without lower limb amputations, they need to walk slower.
[12] People in this class use around 41% more oxygen to walk or run the same distance as someone without a lower limb amputation.
[10][12] Because of the potential for balance issues related to having an amputation, during weight training, amputees are encouraged to use a spotter when lifting more than 15 pounds (6.8 kg).
To keep their oxygen consumption rate similar to people without lower limb amputations, they need to walk slower.
Common problems with intact upper limbs for people in this class include rotator cuffs tearing, shoulder impingement, epicondylitis and peripheral nerve entrapment.
[17][18] While CP2, CP3 and CP6 have similar issues with Athetoid or Ataxic, CP6 competitors have "flight" while they are ambulant in that it is possible for both feet to not be touching the ground while walking.
[28][29] The location of lesions on different vertebrae tend to be associated with disability levels and functionality issues.
[31] They can use a wheelchair using their own power, and do everyday tasks like eating, dressing, and normal physical maintenance.
[32] Swimming classification is done based on a total points system, with a variety of functional and medical tests being used as part of a formula to assign a class.
Part of this test involves the Adapted Medical Research Council (MRC) scale.
These S4 swimmers are able to use their hands and wrists to gain propulsion in the water but have some limits because of lack of full finger control.
[29][36] Disabled Sports USA defined the anatomical definition of this class in 2003 as, "Have full power at elbow and wrist joints.
[37] Disabled Sports USA defined the functional definition of this class in 2003 as, "Have nearly normal grip with non-throwing arm.
[32] Swimming classification is done based on a total points system, with a variety of functional and medical tests being used as part of a formula to assign a class.
Part of this test involves the Adapted Medical Research Council (MRC) scale.
These S4 swimmers are able to use their hands and wrists to gain propulsion in the water but have some limits because of lack of full finger control.
[43] Disabled Sports USA defined the functional definition of this class in 2003 as, "Have no sitting balance.
[32] Swimming classification is done based on a total points system, with a variety of functional and medical tests being used as part of a formula to assign a class.
Part of this test involves the Adapted Medical Research Council (MRC) scale.
[29][45] Disabled Sports USA defined the anatomical definition of this class in 2003 as, "Normal upper limb function.
They cannot have functional hip flexors, i.e. ability to lift the thigh upwards in the sitting position.
"[29] Swimming classification is done based on a total points system, with a variety of functional and medical tests being used as part of a formula to assign a class.
Part of this test involves the Adapted Medical Research Council (MRC) scale.
This policy was put into place in 2014, with the goal of avoiding last minute changes in classes that would negatively impact athlete training preparations.
All competitors needed to be internationally classified with their classification status confirmed prior to the Games, with exceptions to this policy being dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
[55] As part of the water test, swimmers are often required to demonstrate their swimming technique for all four strokes.
[56] In Australia, to be classified in this category, athletes contact the Australian Paralympic Committee or their state swimming governing body.
[58] Swimmers who have competed in this classification include Cheryl Angelelli,[59] Aimee Bruder[59] and Nely Miranda[59] who all won medals in their class at the 2008 Paralympics.
[59] American swimmers who have been classified by the United States Paralympic Committee as being in this class include Fred Amaya, Cheryl Angelelli, Joe McCarthy and Joel Parks.
