Comparison of postural stability in dominant & non-dominant leg of female kata and kumite national team

Postural control is very important in most sports, especially karate. It seems that the history of prolonged karate exercises affect parameters such as the balance in contralateral lower limbs. So, the aim of this study was to compare the postural stability in dominant & non-dominant leg of female kata and kumite national team with sensory interference.
12 kumite and 8 kata female karate athletes in 2013 national team participated in this study. Medial longitudinal arch of foot were measured using emed platform during barefoot walking. Postural stability was assessed using biodex stability system during unilateral standing with opened-eye and closedeye in stable and unstable surface. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare parameters and the level of statistical significance considered if p When the postural stability with opened-eye was examined, there was no significant difference between dominant and non-dominant leg (p>0.05); but when visual’s elimination was applied, significant differences have been observed in overall (p=0.02) and mediolateral (p=0.03) stability indices in unstable surface. No difference was found in any of the sensory challenge between two groups (p>0.05).
It seems that balance isnt suitable factors for selecting kata or kumite as a talent identification characteristics. because it does not make difference between two groups in higher levels of performance . Also leg’s dominance and resulting unequal use of legs may affect balance that perhaps karate-ka higher balance of non-dominant leg is caused by better proprioception. Finally, perhaps there is a relationship between the negative adaptation of musculo-skeletal system and athlete's repetitive patterns of skills that leads to bridge the gap in understanding, prevention and treatment of this phenomenon.