Abstract

The results of a longitudinal ear, nose and throat study of 800 amateur and professional boxers are reported. All had received check-ups at the Rome Sports Medicine Centre over the past 10 years, either prior to the annual renewal of the certificates authorising athletes in the Province of Rome to practise their sports or prior to receiving the authorisation to return to the ring after a K.O. or long absence required by all Italian boxers. It is pointed out that vestibular function is a basic factor in the ability to maintain balance at rest or in movement both in normal circumstances and under the unusually demanding situation of a boxing match. This hearing and vestibular function in particular is extremely important in evaluating the suitability of involvement in this violent and traumatising sport. The alterations to hearing and vestibular function encountered are reported with suggested preventive criteria. Verf.-Referat