Mechanisms of vestibular disorders in skeet shooters, their detection and correction

The aim is to study the mechanisms of vestibular disorders occurring in skeet shooters as a result of gun recoil and to develop rehabilitation measures based on the results obtained. Materials and methods. In 2020, 24 athletes aged from 20 to 60 years and engaged in skeet shooting for 5-15 years were examined at the department of otorhinolaryngology of the South Ural State Medical University. Vestibular disorders were found after increased loads during training in March-May 2020. All athletes underwent general clinical, otoneurological and surdological examination, according to the results of which physical exercises with a therapeutic and preventive effect were prescribed. Moreover, drug treatment aimed to improve cellular metabolism, general metabolism and haemodynamics was used. Physical exercises were performed by athletes in accordance with developed and adapted programs. The objective and subjective indicators of the vestibular analyzer were studied, as well as the effect of physical exercises and load intensity on the duration of reconvalescence and competitive performance. Results. Strict adherence to the intensity of loads and regular physical exercises prevent hydrops and improve haemodynamics of the inner ear and cervical spine. After 2 months, athletes showed a significant improvement in postural balance, as well as the ability to maintain vertical position at rest and when performing various physical exercises that simulated shooting performance, which reduced decision-making time. Conclusion. In skeet shooters subjected to intensive loads associated with gun recoil, cochleovestibular disorders are often observed that negatively affect physical condition, quality of life and sports performance. Timely detection of disorders and the use of drug therapy together with physical exercises will allow optimizing vestibular analyzer performance and starting training in a shorter time frame. Regular otoneurological examinations (at least twice a year) and compliance to all recommendations will increase sports performance.