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Updated: Jun 21, 2025
Measuring the Influence of Magnetic Vestibular Stimulation on Nystagmus, Self-Motion Perception, and Cognitive Performance in a 7T MRT
Published on: March 3, 2023
Weak magnetic vestibular stimulation decreases postural sway
Kunihiko Tanaka1, Akihiro Sugiura1
1Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University of Medical Science, 795-1 Ichihiraga Seki, Gifu 501-3894, Japan.
Background:
Perceptible galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) causes nystagmus and postural sway deterioration. Conversely, imperceptible GVS improves postural stability, suggesting the presence of stochastic resonance.
Research Question:
Similar to GVS, strong magnetic vestibular stimulation of 7 T induces nystagmus and increases body sway. Thus, a relatively small magnetic stimulation may improve postural stability. In this study, we measured the effect of a relatively small magnetic field on postural sway.
Methods:
Posturography was performed in eight healthy participants using a stabilometer with foam rubber on board. The center of pressure (COP) trajectories were recorded in both the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions for 60 s with the eye closed. Neodymium magnets (0.4 T) or aluminum disks of similar size (0 T) were placed bilaterally over the mastoid processes.
Results:
Both the trajectory length and envelopment area of the COP movement with 0.4 T were significantly smaller than those with 0 T.
Significance:
The relatively smaller magnetic vestibular stimulation decreased postural sway. This method may be useful for improving the vestibular function and related reflexes.
