Vestibular perceptual testing from lab to clinic: a review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Audiology
• Vestibular Science

Background:

• Dizziness presents with varied symptoms beyond vertigo, often linked to vestibular disorders.
• Non-specific perceptual complaints necessitate improved diagnostic tools for vestibular disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current vestibular perceptual testing methods.
• To evaluate the clinical applicability of various testing techniques.
• To identify research gaps in vestibular perceptual testing and rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on vestibular perceptual testing.
• Categorization of tests from complex laboratory techniques to simpler clinical options.
• Analysis of limitations and potential for future research.

Main Results:

• Vestibular perceptual testing is gaining traction for enhanced diagnostics and therapeutics.
• A spectrum of testing methods exists, ranging from specialized lab equipment to more accessible clinical tools.
• Current methods have limitations, highlighting the need for further research and development.

Conclusions:

• Vestibular perceptual testing is crucial for understanding and managing vestibular disorders.
• Integrating rehabilitation strategies with perceptual retraining shows promise.
• Further research is needed to refine and validate clinic-friendly vestibular perceptual tests.