Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026
05:02
Using Unidirectional Rotations to Improve Vestibular System Asymmetry in Patients with Vestibular Dysfunction
Published on: August 30, 2019
6.9K
Vestibular dysfunction in patients with chronic pain or underlying neurologic disorders
John W Gilbert1, Manuel Vogt, Robert E Windsor
1Physician Services, PSC, PO Box 22430, Lexington, KY 40522-2430. correspondence@kentuckypaincare.com.
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|February 26, 2014
Summary
Individuals with chronic pain or neurological disorders often experience vestibular dysfunction, increasing fall risk. Early assessment of the vestibular system is recommended for these patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Otolaryngology
- Public Health
Background:
- Vestibular dysfunction increases fall risk and is linked to chronic pain, a significant public health issue affecting 43% of US adults.
- Chronic pain and neurological disorders are common conditions requiring medical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of vestibular dysfunction in patients treated for chronic noncancer pain or neurological disorders.
- To identify recommended follow-up diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for identified vestibular dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 124 patients treated for chronic pain or neurological disorders in a private neuroscience practice in 2011.
- Vestibular function was assessed using videonystagmography.
- Therapeutic and diagnostic recommendations were recorded.
Main Results:
- Vestibular deficits were identified in 66.9% (83 out of 124) of patients.
- The majority of patients received recommendations for further neurologic examination, brain imaging (MR or CT), or vestibular rehabilitation therapy.
- Specific follow-up included specialized imaging for acoustic neuroma in a small subset of patients.
Conclusions:
- Patients receiving medication for chronic pain or neurological disorders exhibit a high incidence of vestibular dysfunction.
- Routine assessment and monitoring of the vestibular system are advisable for this patient population.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:15Equilibrium and Balance
6.2K
The inner ear assumes dual functionalities of auditory perception and equilibrium maintenance. The vestibule is the organ responsible for balance. This organ contains mechanoreceptors, specifically hair cells, endowed with stereocilia, which aid in deciphering information regarding the position and motion of our heads. Two intrinsic components, the utricle and saccule, help perceive head position, while the semicircular canals track head movement. Neurological messages initiated in the...
6.2K
01:29The Vestibular System
38.0K
The vestibular system is a set of inner ear structures that provide a sense of balance and spatial orientation. This system is comprised of structures within the labyrinth of the inner ear, including the cochlea and two otolith organs—the utricle and saccule. The labyrinth also contains three semicircular canals—superior, posterior, and horizontal—that are oriented on different planes.
38.0K
01:18Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System
1.9K
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is an intricate network of nerves that controls functions such as the regulation of heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure regulation. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to various disorders that affect multiple bodily functions. One common feature of many autonomic disorders is the involvement of smooth blood vessels, which play a crucial role in regulating blood flow throughout the body.
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's...
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's...
1.9K
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
40
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
40
01:23Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
30
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...
30
01:28Disorders of the Nervous Tissue
3.0K
Nervous tissue is a vital component of the human body's communication system, enabling us to perceive and respond to stimuli. However, like all other tissues, it is vulnerable to disorders and diseases that can significantly impact our neurological functioning.
Homeostatic Imbalances:
Alzheimer's disease manifests as a gradual decline in memory and cognitive abilities, attributed to the buildup of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.
Parkinson's disease arises from the...
Homeostatic Imbalances:
Alzheimer's disease manifests as a gradual decline in memory and cognitive abilities, attributed to the buildup of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.
Parkinson's disease arises from the...
3.0K