Aimee Mullins, an athlete, speaker, actress and model has written an extremely thought-provoking article for Gizmodo titled, Racing on Carbon Fiber Legs: How Abled Should We Be?. The article is about challenging our assumptions about the nature of athletic competition in the context of prosthetic devices, body-altering surgery, and what is considered cheating or gaining an ‘unfair’ sports advantage.
Mullins points out that while LASIK surgery to improve eyesight is not considered an athletic ‘advantage,’ prosthetic implants that merely restore normal function are. Mullins includes some historical insights that, in an age of increasing medical technology, make this a ‘must-read’ for athletes and those who admire them.
Prosthetic Race Controversies
Aimee Mullins Confronts Athletic Advantage & Disability
Trend Themes
1. Redefining Athletic Advantage - The trend of challenging the nature of athletic competition in the context of prosthetic devices and body-altering surgery creates opportunities for developing innovative sports technology.
2. Normalizing Prosthetic Implants - Normalize prosthetic implants, transitioning from artificial prosthetics to body mobility enhancers.
3. Advancement in Medical Technology - Advancements in medical technology lead to potential disruptions in the world of sports, raising questions about what constitutes fair play.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Technology - Sports technology companies can develop innovative prosthetics, mobility aids and wearable tech for athletes who require them.
2. Medical Technology - Medical technology organizations may focus on developing revolutionary prosthetics and other related technologies.
3. Athletic Apparel - Athletic apparel manufacturers can explore opportunities to produce athletic wear for athletes with prosthetic limbs or other body mobility aids.