Ankara İli İşitme Engelli Okul Çağı Çocuklarında Ayak Biyomekaniği, Denge ve Yürüme Parametrelerinin Değerlendirilmesi

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the balance and the static and dynamic biomechanical parameters of foot in primary and secondary school children with hearing impairment living in Ankara and to compare them with children with normal hearing. 67 children with hearing impairment and 66 children without hearing impairment between the ages of 6-15 were included in the study. The Flamingo Balance Test (FBT) was used to assess static balance and Functional Reach Test (FRT) were used to assess dynamic balance after the demographic information of the children was recorded. The statically and dynamically measurable plantar pressure distribution parameters of the children were evaluated with the RsScan-Footscan pedobarographic system. The Footwear Assessment Score (FAS) was used to evaluate features of footwears. A questionnaire created by us was applied to parents about where they learned about health and shoes. The obtained values were compared both within the group and between the groups. It was found that children with hearing impairment had weaker balance function according to FBT and FRT scores (p<0.05). Children with hearing-impaired were found to have significantly lower static plantar pressure distribution values (p<0.05). In terms of dynamic plantar pressure distribution values, it was found that children with hearing-impaired have different amounts of on different parts of their feet than children without hearing-impaired. While there was no significant relationship between FAS and balance tests, dynamic plantar pressure values and gait variables in both groups (p>0.05); it was concluded that the percentage of total pressure in the right (dominant) foot increased with the increase in footwear suitability in children with hearing-impaired (p<0.05). It is important in terms of drawing attention to the issues of ensuring the proper distribution of plantar pressures in order to increase static and dynamic balance, determination and prevention of abnormal biomechanical changes that may occur in the foot and pathological conditions that may arise due to it in hearing impaired children. Development of suitable shoes for children based on measurements may prevent various problems during both in childhood and adulthood.