A recent systematic review suggests people with Parkinson’s disease may find some benefit in vestibular rehabilitation to improve postural balance. Postural imbalance and falls are a common occurrence in patients with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disease which affects many areas of the central and peripheral nervous system, including the vestibular system (do Amaral et al, 2024).
Investigators initially found 485 studies; however, only three studies met the criteria for inclusion. While the included studies showed a positive impact on posture regardless of the stage of the disease, researchers found the overall quality of evidence as low. More robust studies are needed to better understand the potential impact vestibular rehabilitation programs may have on this patient population.
Reference
do Amaral CMS, de Almeida SB, de Almeida RP, et al. (2024) Effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation on postural balance in Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Neurol 24(161).
Recent Posts
Proposed Medicare Fee Schedule Introduces New Codes for Hearing Device Services
After more than three decades, the longstanding CPT® codes for hearing aid services—CPT codes 92590–92595—are being replaced. This update deletes the six outdated codes, in…
In Memoriam: Jack Katz, PhD
With deep respect and admiration, we remember Jack Katz, PhD, as a towering figure in the field of audiology whose influence has left an indelible…
New Survey for Children with Unilateral Hearing Loss
The prevalence of unilateral hearing loss (UHL) is estimated to be between 3–6 percent of school-aged children, and congenital UHL is approximately 1 per 1000…