Implementation outcomes of a sensory integration therapy program with computerized dynamic posturography in patients with balance and sensory dysfunction

Abstract

Objective

We describe the first-year implementation experience of an Instrumented Sensory Integration Therapy Program in Audiological & Balance Center patients.

Design

This is a retrospective descriptive study. Participants included Seventy-three adults with diagnoses of acute, episodic, or chronic vestibular syndromes. They were classified into the following two groups: group 1 included 46 individuals treated with ISIT plus VRT, and group 2 included 27 individuals treated only with ISIT.

Results

The Sensory Organization Test (SOT) for both groups showed a statistical significance for all three sensory inputs; visual systems (G1: p = 0.0003; G2: p = 0.0337), vestibular system (G1: p < 0.0001; G2: p = 0.0003), and balance as demonstrated by compound balance score (G1: p < 0.0001; G2: p = 0.0035), and balance percentage deficit (G1: p < 0.0001; G2: p = 0.0078).

Conclusions

The severity and complexity of functional neurological disorders in the context of vestibular syndromes seem to require between 10 and 20 therapy sessions, and combined ISIT plus VRT appears to be more effective than ISIT as a monotherapy.