Affiliations: [a] University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA | [b] University of New Hampshire, Athens, GA, USA | [c] VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Dr. Michael Horvat, Movement
Studies Laboratory, Ramsey Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602,
USA. Tel.: +1 706 542 4455; Fax: +1 706 542 3417; E-mail: mhorvat@coe.uga.edu
Abstract: The purpose of this investigation was to compare the isokinetic
strength characteristics of visually impaired with sighted individuals. Thirty
age-matched participants who met the criteria for blind and partially sighted
were matched according to age, height, and sex. Participants were evaluated on
a Cybex Isokinetic dynamometer at speeds of 90 and 180 deg/sec. The main
outcome measures were peak torque normalized by body weight; and power adjusted
by body weight. Data was analyzed by using separate 2 × 2 ×
2 × 2 (group × gender
× muscle × velocity) repeated
measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs). Separate ANOVAs were performed because
of the relatively low number of subjects used in the investigation. Results
demonstrated significant group, velocity and muscle main effects; sighted
individuals had significantly greater values for peak torque and power than
individuals with visual impairments. In conclusion, it appears that individuals
with visual impairments are deficient in strength and power compared to sighted
individuals. Interventions programs should begin early in an individual's
development and stress developing muscular strength and power.
Keywords: visual impairment, strength, power, and work
