Effect of playing football (soccer) on balance, strength, and quality of life in unilateral below-knee amputees.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of playing football (soccer) on balance, muscle strength, locomotor capabilities, and health-related quality of life in subjects with unilateral below-knee amputation.


METHODS
Cross-sectional controlled study.


RESULTS
Difference in KAT dynamic balance scores obtained 3 days after was statistically significant in the study group (P < 0.05) but not in the control group (P > 0.05). Differences in static balance test scores was statistically significant between the groups (P < 0.05) in favor of the study group. In isokinetic evaluation, differences in flexion and extension peak torque measures of the lower extremities were not statistically significant between the groups (P > 0.05). Differences in Houghton and Berg balance scales were not found statistically significant between the groups (P > 0.05). Differences in Locomotor Capabilities Index and in the SF-36 in physical functioning, physical role, pain, and emotional role between the groups were statistically significant (P < 0.05) in favor of the study group.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results show that playing football may have positive effects on balance and health-related quality of life in unilateral below-knee amputees.
Yazicioglu
Kamil
K
From the Turkish Armed Forces Rehabilitation and Care Centre, Gulhane Military Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey.
Taskaynatan
Mehmet Ali
MA
Guzelkucuk
Umut
U
Tugcu
Ilknur
I
D000328:Adult; D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D053580:Muscle Strength; D004856:Postural Balance; D011788:Quality of Life; D012916:Soccer / Q000502:physiology*