Comparative Analysis of Balance Metrics in Injured versus Healthy Professional Tennis Players

Abstract

Objectives. Knee injuries are prevalent among professional tennis players and have a significant impact on their athletic performance and longevity. This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic and postural balance differences between injured and healthy professional tennis players, reflecting the broader implications of knee injuries on player stability and performance. Materials and methods. A total of 80 professional tennis players, comprising 40 individuals in the knee injury group (IG) and 40 individuals in the non-injury group (NIG), were selected to participate in this cross-sectional study. Participants’ postural sway was assessed under various conditions, including standing on different surfaces with open and closed eyes using a Wii Balance Board. The Y-Balance Test was performed to evaluate the player’s dynamic balance. An Independent t-test was used to examine the difference in postural sway and dynamic balance between the two groups. Results. The results of this study indicated that players with knee injuries showed significantly worse performance in both dynamic balance (p<0.05 for non-dominant legs) and postural sway (significant differences in mean velocity on foam surfaces with eyes open and closed, p<0.001). These findings suggest that knee injuries contribute to substantial deficits in balance control, which could affect overall athletic performance and injury risk. Conclusion. The study underscores the necessity of incorporating targeted balance and proprioceptive training into rehabilitation programs for tennis players recovering from knee injuries. By improving balance, these interventions can enhance neuromuscular control, reduce reinjury risk, and support better overall performance in high-stakes environments. Future research should focus on refining balance training programs to maximize recovery outcomes and minimize injury impacts.