This study compares the effectiveness of Gaze Stabilization Exercises and Optokinetic Training in improving dizziness, balance, and confidence in individuals with peripheral vestibular disorders.
Peripheral vestibular disorders (PVD) commonly cause dizziness, postural instability, and decreased balance confidence, which increase the risk of falls and limit participation in daily activities. Vestibular rehabilitation is widely used to manage these symptoms. Among rehabilitation approaches, Gaze Stabilization Exercises (GSE) aim to improve vestibulo-ocular reflex function, while Optokinetic Training (OKT) promotes symptom habituation through visual motion stimulation. However, the comparative effectiveness of these two interventions remains unclear. This study aims to compare the effects of GSE and OKT on dizziness severity, postural stability, and balance confidence in individuals with peripheral vestibular disorders. Participants will undergo intervention sessions three times per week for six weeks. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (week 3), and post-intervention (week 6). Primary and secondary outcomes will include the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), and the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale. Data will be analyzed using SPSS statistical software. It is hypothesized that both interventions will improve dizziness, balance, and confidence, though differences in effectiveness may exist between the two approaches. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to evidence-based vestibular rehabilitation by identifying effective intervention strategies. The results may help clinicians design personalized rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing fall risk, improving functional mobility, and enhancing quality of life in individuals with peripheral vestibular disorders.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
32
The control group received gaze stabilization exercises for 6 weeks, comprising 18 supervised sessions conducted three times weekly. Training included VOR x1 and VOR x2 exercises in horizontal and vertical planes using near and far visual targets. Exercises progressed from sitting to standing positions and from simple to visually busy backgrounds. Each session also included balance training activities such as weight shifts, tandem stance, pivot turns, and walking with head movements, with rest periods provided as needed.
The experimental group underwent optokinetic training for 6 weeks with 18 supervised sessions conducted three times weekly. Participants were exposed to progressively challenging moving visual stimuli, including distortion patterns, busy street scenes, motorway driving videos, and chequerboard jiggle/wrap patterns. Training advanced from sitting to standing with dynamic movements as visual complexity increased. Baseline and task-specific balance exercises were incorporated into every session, with adequate rest periods provided when necessary.
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Pakistan
Dizziness
It will be measured by using Dizziness Handicap Inventory. Score Interpretation: 0-30: Slight or Mild Handicap 31-60: Moderate Handicap 61-100: Severe Handicap
Time frame: 6 weeks
Postural Stability
It will be measured by using Dynamic Gait Index (DGI). Interpretation: ≤19 = increased fall risk 20-24 = safe ambulation Higher scores = better gait performance and dynamic balance Lower scores = impaired gait and higher fall risk
Time frame: 6 weeks
Balance Confidence
It will be measured by using Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale. Interpretation: \<50% = low level of physical functioning and high fall risk 50-80% = moderate level of functioning80% = high level of functioning and confidence Higher scores = greater balance confidence Lower scores = fear of falling and reduced functional independence
Time frame: 6 weeks
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