Assessment of Balance in Individuals with and without Motion Sickness: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Introduction: This vestibular malfunction leads to symptoms from dizziness, orientation problems and postural disequilibrium to the distressing visual symptoms of vertigo (an illusion of rotatory motion) and nystagmus during activities that require head movement suggesting that vestibular disorders markedly disrupt balance control. Therefore, in this study an attempt was made to assess whether individuals with motion sickness are having impaired balance compared to the healthy counterparts. Aim: To compare the balance of individuals with and without motion sickness. Materials and Methods: There were two groups in this study. Each group was having 48 participants. Group A was individuals with motion sickness (Experimental group) and group B was individuals without motion sickness, (control group). Balance of both the groups was assessed using, Neuro-Com basic balance manager i.e. Basic Balance Master (Version 9.2) from Natus balance and mobility. The test administered were unilateral stance and CTSIB. Results: There was statistically significant difference in sway velocity of both the groups in m CTSIB as well as unilateral stance. (p<0.001). Increased sway velocity was found in group with motion sickness. Conclusion: Balance was affected in individuals with motion sickness.