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Influence of Cochlear Implantation on Postural Control and Risk of Falls
Julia Louza1, Christopher Rösel2, Robert Gürkov2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, julia.louza@med.uni-muenchen.de.
Audiology & Neuro-Otology
|October 23, 2019
Summary
Cochlear implants (CI) can improve body stability and reduce fall risk, especially with sound input like music or speech. This hearing rehabilitation benefits older adults and warrants further study.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cochlear implantation is a key hearing rehabilitation method.
- Previous research indicates cochlear implantation impacts the vestibular system.
- The effect of cochlear implants on postural control and body stability remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of activated cochlear implants (CI) on postural control and fall risk.
- To investigate the influence of different sound inputs (music, speech, white noise) with CI on body stability.
- To assess the effect of hearing rehabilitation via CI on fall risk post-implantation.
Main Methods:
- Prospective clinical trial with 33 adult cochlear implant users (mean 23 months post-implantation).
- Utilized mobile posturography (VertiGuard®) to assess balance deficit.
- Measured fall risk (%) by evaluating body sway with CI deactivated/activated and various sound inputs.
Main Results:
- Mean fall risk decreased significantly from 45.5% (CI deactivated) to lower levels with activated CI.
- Fall risk further reduced with music (42.0%) and speech (42.4%) inputs.
- 72% of patients showed improved fall risk with activated CI; older patients exhibited a more pronounced effect.
Conclusions:
- Hearing rehabilitation with activated cochlear implants positively affects postural control and reduces fall risk.
- Sound input, particularly music, enhances the benefits of CI for body stability.
- Findings highlight the importance of optimal hearing rehabilitation, especially for the elderly, and suggest CI may reduce fall risk.
