Static balance and proprioception evaluation in deaf national basketball players

Abstract

Background: ‪Because of the proximity of anatomical structures involved in auditory and vestibular functions, complications concerning the inner ear may lead to problems involving both systems. This study investigated whether static balance and knee proprioception in deaf basketball players are different from those in individuals with normal hearing. Material and methods: ‪12 deaf national basketball players and 13 individuals with normal hearing were included. Static balance was evaluated using the Biodex-BioSway Balance System. Knee proprioception was assessed using a Dualer IQ Digital Inclinometer with the active angle repetition test. Results: ‪The dominant-side mediolateral stability index and non-dominant-side overall, anteroposterior, and mediolateral stability index scores of deaf basketball players in the postural stability test were different compared with those of the individuals with normal hearing (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of knee proprioception (p>0.05). Conclusions: ‪Although there was no difference in knee proprioception in deaf basketball players, it is noteworthy that their postural stability was more impaired compared with that in individuals with normal hearing. Despite regular exercise, deaf basketball players had poorer balance than individuals with normal hearing. Therefore, balance and vestibular exercises should be added to the training programs of these athletes.