Neurocognitive measures in the assessment of vestibular disturbance in patients with brain injury

Abstract

Introduction:

Problems with balance and dizziness are one of the most common complaints of individuals who have experienced a brain injury and are reported in up to 90% of cases. Despite the ubiquity of vestibular disturbance in this population, there remains a dearth of research on the interaction between physiological and cognitive systems responsible for maintaining balance.

Purpose:

The purpose of this article is to review studies on the interaction of physiological and cognitive processes required to maintain balance that may aide assessment and recovery of balance disturbance in patients with brain injury.

Summary:

This article provides a review of research on the role of higher order cognitive processes in maintaining balance and rational for further inclusion of neurocognitive measures in the assessment of vestibular disturbance.

Conclusion:

Greater inclusion of neurocognitive measures in assessment of vestibular disturbance provides a method of assessment containing increased ecological validity compared to traditional assessments, better prepares patients for discharge, and may reduce the incidence of future injury.