UK Boccia BC1 player, David Smith MBE, has won multiple medals in his sport and is not only World number 1 but the most successful British boccia player of all time. The athlete has been using a DMO® Custom Suit to help his performance since 2014.
Boccia (pronounced bot-cha) is a regional, national and international sport, similar to Bowls. It is often played by athletes who have any kind of neurological impairment that impacts their motor function.
David, who uses his DMO® Custom Suit to help him in all areas of his life, has Cerebral Palsy Spastic Quadriplegia which means his whole body is affected and his muscles are often stiff and tight, reducing his range of movement and making smooth, controlled movements a challenge. He also has severe Scoliosis, curvature of the spine.
Before coming to DM Orthotics for a clinical assessment David wore a spinal brace. He experienced lots of stiffness in his lower back and struggled with poor core control.
After receiving new neuro physio training, David’s physiotherapist suggested a suit as they felt it would increase his sports performance, stability, and stamina, as well as reduce his risk of injury.
DM Orthotics helped support his transition from using a brace to a soft fabric orthosis and now he no longer uses a brace, instead he uses a DMO® Custom Suit specially tailored to his needs.
David says,
“Within a few months I was stronger, more flexible and more responsive to soft tissue treatment. My posture improved and my power rose rapidly. I was able to start dominating my sport and updating my throwing technique easily.
I never use my brace anymore. My pressure sores have disappeared, and my body is much more resistant to aches and pains in the back. I am still dominant in my sport and looking to defend my title.”
Power is important in Boccia as, unlike Bowls, the players use soft balls that are harder to move on the Jack. David’s suit helps his alignment and stability giving him the opportunity to enhance his accuracy and power. Since using his suit David has found his power has increased by 10%.
DM Orthotics are pleased to be supporting members of the British Boccia Team this year, look out for more stories on how we have helped them and their progress.
If you would like to know more about our DMO® Custom Suits visit: https://www.dmorthotics.com/product-category/body
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