Occupational Therapy and Vestibular Dysfunction
Location
Lions Eye Center
Document Type
Abstract
Start Date
7-4-2025 4:05 PM
End Date
7-4-2025 4:20 PM
Description
Introduction: Vestibular dysfunction affects 15-20% of adults annually, often impacting daily activities and quality of life (Neuhauser, 2016). While occupational therapy (OT) can address functional limitations caused by vestibular disorders, its role in vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is under-researched.
Purpose: This study explored OT practitioners' competence and confidence in VR and identified barriers to implementation.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 532 OT practitioners in the gulf south region, with 79 responses received. The survey included questions on VR training, techniques used, and barriers of implementation in practice. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and thematic analysis was applied to open-ended responses.
Results: Of the respondents, 63.3% reported no formal VR training, while 36.7% had received training. Commonly used techniques included static balance screens (72.41 % ), oculomotor interventions (62.07% ), and positional vertigo screens (55.17% ). The primary barriers to VR were lack of training (65.79%) and low patient demand (39.47%). While 52.63% strongly agreed that VR is within the OT scope of practice, over 30% felt that OT curricula inadequately prepared practitioners for VR evaluation and treatment.
Discussion: The findings highlight a need for enhanced VR education and training in OT practice. Addressing these gaps can empower practitioners to better serve clients with vestibular dysfunction, improving their participation in meaningful activities. Further research and professional development in VR are essential to advance OT's vital role in this area.
Recommended Citation
Sylvest, Katie; Binder, Juliet; Breaux, Olivia; Casseri, Mallory; and Combs, Erin, "Occupational Therapy and Vestibular Dysfunction" (2025). School of Allied Health Professions Research Day. 6.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/ahrd/2025/presentations/6
Occupational Therapy and Vestibular Dysfunction
Lions Eye Center
Introduction: Vestibular dysfunction affects 15-20% of adults annually, often impacting daily activities and quality of life (Neuhauser, 2016). While occupational therapy (OT) can address functional limitations caused by vestibular disorders, its role in vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is under-researched.
Purpose: This study explored OT practitioners' competence and confidence in VR and identified barriers to implementation.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 532 OT practitioners in the gulf south region, with 79 responses received. The survey included questions on VR training, techniques used, and barriers of implementation in practice. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and thematic analysis was applied to open-ended responses.
Results: Of the respondents, 63.3% reported no formal VR training, while 36.7% had received training. Commonly used techniques included static balance screens (72.41 % ), oculomotor interventions (62.07% ), and positional vertigo screens (55.17% ). The primary barriers to VR were lack of training (65.79%) and low patient demand (39.47%). While 52.63% strongly agreed that VR is within the OT scope of practice, over 30% felt that OT curricula inadequately prepared practitioners for VR evaluation and treatment.
Discussion: The findings highlight a need for enhanced VR education and training in OT practice. Addressing these gaps can empower practitioners to better serve clients with vestibular dysfunction, improving their participation in meaningful activities. Further research and professional development in VR are essential to advance OT's vital role in this area.
Comments
Mentor: Ingrid Franc