Comparison of the Static and Dynamic Balance Between Normal-Hearing and Hearing-Impaired Wrestlers

Balance is fundamental in sport, especially when there is an opponent. Although balance can be improved with practice, it is highly affected by nervous system disorders, particularly by vestibular disorders and visual impairment. The purpose of this study was to compare static and dynamic balance between normal and hearing-impaired wrestlers. The participants were 52 young male hearing-impaired wrestlers (n=29, age=18.76±3.54) and normal-hearing athletes (n=23, age=19.09±2.76) competing at the national level. The static and dynamic balance were measured using the stork test on one foot and the Y-balance test (in anterior, posteromedial & posterolateral directions). MANOVA indicated significant differences between groups (Wilks’ L=.284, F12,39=8.21, p