T42 (classification)

[6] Above the knee amputees have difficulty using standard able-bodied splint actions because of the differences in their functional muscle mass.

This technique involves using hip extensions to avoid deceleration caused by the prosthetic leg hitting the ground.

Common problems with intact upper limbs for people in this class include rotator cuffs tearing, shoulder impingement, epicondylitis and peripheral nerve entrapment.

[11] People in this class who are lower limb amputees are required to wear their leg prosthesis when they are on the track, and they must run.

[11] People with arm amputations in this class can have elevated padded blocks to place their stumps on for the start of the race.

The classification was created by the International Paralympic Committee and has roots in a 2003 attempt to address "the overall objective to support and co-ordinate the ongoing development of accurate, reliable, consistent and credible sport focused classification systems and their implementation.

[15] Notable current competitors in this class include Kelly Cartwright, Scott Reardon, Heinrich Popow, Earle Connor,[16] Wojtek Czyz and Martina Caironi.

Double above knee amputees Vanessa Low and Richard Whitehead also compete in the T42 classification, both achieved T42 world records and won T42 Paralympic Gold medals.