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Effect of gaze-stabilization exercises on vestibular function during postural control
Akiyoshi Matsugi1, Yusuke Ueta, Kosuke Oku
1aFaculty of Rehabilitation, Shijonawate Gakuen University bDepartment of Rehabilitation, Wakakusa Tatsuma Rehabilitation Hospital, Daito City cDepartment of Rehabilitation, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto City dDepartment of Rehabilitation, Baba Memorial Hospital, Sakai City eDepartment of Rehabilitation, Wakayama Medical University, Kihoku Hospital, Katsuragicho, Japan.
Gaze-stabilization exercise (GSE) immediately enhances postural stability and improves the vestibulospinal reflex (VSR) in healthy adults. This suggests GSE can be a valuable tool for vestibular rehabilitation and balance improvement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
- Vestibular System Research
Background:
- Gaze-stabilization exercise (GSE) is a common component of vestibular rehabilitation.
- Its specific impact on vestibular function, particularly in postural control and vestibulospinal reflex (VSR), remains unclear in healthy individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immediate effects of GSE on postural control during static standing.
- To determine if GSE influences the vestibulospinal reflex (VSR) in healthy young adults.
Main Methods:
- Center of pressure (CoP-L) was measured during static standing with eyes open/closed before, immediately after, and 10 minutes after GSE or a control task.
- H-reflex of the soleus muscle was measured following galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) before and after GSE or control tasks to assess VSR modulation.
Main Results:
- GSE significantly reduced CoP-L in eyes-closed conditions post-exercise, indicating improved postural stability.
- GSE led to a significant increase in GVS-induced H-reflex inhibition, suggesting enhanced VSR function.
- Control tasks did not yield significant changes in CoP-L or VSR.
Conclusions:
- Gaze-stabilization exercise provides immediate benefits to postural stability, particularly under challenging sensory conditions (eyes closed).
- The improvements in postural control following GSE appear to be mediated by enhancements in the vestibulospinal reflex (VSR).
- Findings support the inclusion of GSE in rehabilitation programs aimed at improving vestibular function and balance.