Sports-Related Injuries in Deaf Competitive Squad Athletes-Results of a Retrospective Self-Assessment.

Abstract

Background: Deaf squad athletes regularly participate in national/international competitions and most prepare for competitions in clubs with hearing athletes. Hearing loss is associated with difficulties in balance control which may impair functionality. The aim of this study is to provide epidemiological data on sports injuries in deaf squad athletes.

Methods: In this retrospective study, data on main sport, training and competitions, injury rates, and downtimes were collected. Questionnaires from n = 65 athletes (n = 15 females, n = 50 males; age 28.00 ± 0.40 years) were finally analyzed. All injuries during the athlete's career within nine body regions were recorded. The influence of contact sports, supervision by Olympic Training Center (OSP), and hearing aids on injury rates and downtimes were analyzed.

Results: An amount of 89.20% were additionally registered in a regular sports club. A total of 1430 injuries were recorded during 465,400 training hours (3.07 injuries/1000 training hours). The highest prevalences were found for hand/fingers (43.00%) and ankle/foot (14.00%). Contact sport athletes had higher injury rates and longer downtimes (5.66 versus 1.28 injuries/1000; p < 0.001; 2.45 versus 1.11 weeks/1000; p = 0.011). OSP athletes showed lower injury rates (0.92 versus 4.38 injuries/1000, p = 0.004). Longer downtimes were recorded for athletes without hearing aids during training (2.29 weeks/1000 versus 0.96 weeks/1000; p = 0.045).

Conclusions: Deaf athletes are exposed to additional training and competition in hearing sports. The negative impact of contact sports may be attributed to hearing loss. Hearing aids in training seem to be protective. Athletes should consider supervision by OSP. The results of this study may help to improve treatment and integration of deaf athletes into hearing sports.