The effect of sport training on otolith function in adults with profound sensorineural hearing loss

Abstract

Objectives It seems that regular physical activity leading to favourable alternations in the bodily system, including improved muscle mass, as well as better postural control. This study aims to assess the effect of strenuous training program on balance function in deaf adults. Methods During a cross-sectional design, 50 deaf patients and 22 healthy adults (with no history of vertigo and hearing loss) were included. Deaf patients were also classified as “non-athletes” and “athletes” groups. The vestibular (Otolith) function testing was carried out using the cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP). Results The mean p13 latency and p13-n23 amplitude of cVEMPs in the control group were significantly shorter, and larger than the deaf groups, respectively. Furthermore, the mean p13-latency in “athletes deaf” group was significantly earlier than the “non-athletes deaf” group. The p1 and n1 oVEMP peak latencies were significantly prolonged in deaf patients than the controls. The comparison of the asymmetry ratio between the control and deaf groups was significant only for the cVEMP response. Conclusion Our results indicated that otolithic dysfunction is a common and hidden problem in the deaf population. Strenuous sport training in adults can be considered as an effective therapeutic intervention to stimulate vestibular function in deaf patients.