Evaluation and Comparison of the Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Structure and the Static Balance in Children with Visual and Hearing Impairment

The purpose of this study is the Investigation of the musculoskeletal structure of the upper limbs and the static balance of children with visual and hearing impairment. 30 low vision children(mean age: 8/76±2/89, weight: 30/82±29/47, height:105/15±13/13, BMI: 32/67± 4/59), 30 low hearing(mean age: 9/53±2/96,weight: 33/86±8/94, height: 112/13±13/1, BMI: 26/40±2/17) and 30 normal peers(mean age: 9/40±2/92,weight: 33/86±29/47, height:110/30±12/84, BMI: 24/79±2/19) were selected from the available community, nonrandomized sampling in order to assess forward head posture and round shoulder in lateral view and lateral head flexion and uneven shoulder in sagittal plan used digital imaging camera and outocad software. Also, in order to assessment of static balance used modify stork test. And for assessment kyphosis used flexible ruler(r=/091). For comparing groups, one-way ANOVA (p>0/05) and scheffe post hoc test is used by using SPSS software (version 20). Data analysis showed there is significant difference between groups in forward head angle (p=0/001), rounded shoulder(p=0/001), lateral head flexion (p=0/001) and uneven shoulder(p=0/001). Besides, there were significant difference among groups in kyphosis rate between low vision group with health(p=0/001) and low hearing(p=0/04)groups. The result of the Static balance test showed there is  significant difference between low vision with low hearing groups(p=0/001), low vision with normal group(p=0/001). according to the results of this study, visual and hearing impairment is associated with postural deformities. Probably, sensory imbalances may reduce balance and create postural problems in these individuals. So, for improving  postural alignment status, control and reduce deformity, maintaining  proper physical condition is necessary in these people.