Effect of Selected Balance Exercises on the Dynamic Balance of Children with Visual Impairments

Abstract

Introduction Maintaining balance while walking is of utmost importance for individuals with visual impairments because deficits in dynamic balance have been associated with a high risk of falling. Thus, the primary aim of the study presented here was to determine whether balance training effects the dynamic balance of children with visual impairments. Methods The study included 19 children with visual impairments (aged 8 to 14) from the school for students with visual impairments in Isfahan, Iran, who were randomly assigned to a balance-training (n = 9) or control (n = 10) group. The balance-training group was required to participate in an eight-week balance-training program, while the control group did not participate in any organized balance-training program. The Modified Bass Test of Dynamic Balance was used to measure the dynamic balance of the participants. Both groups performed a pretest prior to the experimental period and performed a posttest immediately after the experimental period. Results The scores on the pretest showed no significant difference between the balance-training group and the control group. However, after the balance-training group completed the balance-training program, a between-group difference was found in the participants’ task scores, t (18) = 4.095, p < .05. Discussion The findings indicate that involvement in a balance-training program will significantly improve the dynamic balance of individuals with visual impairments relative to a control group. Implications for practitioners The study showed that if instructors require individuals with visual impairments to perform balance-improving exercises, the result can be an outstanding improvement in their dynamic balance. With improved balance, individuals with visual impairments may encounter fewer falls and experience a healthier lifestyle.