Stabilization Strategies - People with Vestibular Hypofunction

STUDY BASICS

Do you have diagnosed vestibular hypofunction? Are you between 18-64 years old? You may be eligible for a research study to understand how balance in walking differs between healthy subjects and individuals with vestibular disorders. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Maintaining balance is not well understood, yet it is critical for walking and preventing falls. Individuals with inner ear (vestibular) disorders are at a greater risk of falls than healthy individuals. This study seeks to understand how healthy individuals use different strategies to maintain balance while walking and how these strategies differ in individuals with vestibular disorders. 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Eligible participants:

• Are between 18 and 64 years old 
• Have diagnosed vestibular hypofunction

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Once we have determined that you meet study criteria, we will place sensors on your body which will allow us to measure how you move. You will wear a ceiling-mounted harness that would catch you in the case of a loss of balance to prevent a fall. You will be asked to perform walking assessments in different conditions (normal, narrow base of support, small movements under your feet). During this time, measurements of how you are walking will be recorded from our camera system. You will walk less than ten meters in each condition. You will perform up to five repetitions of each condition, for a total of no more than 50 trials. During this visit, you will also perform tasks such as walking at different speeds, walking while turning your head, walking up and down stairs, and stepping over objects of various sizes. A member of the study team will spot you closely (within an arm's length).