Optokinetic stimulation in the rehabilitation of visually induced dizziness in people with vestibular disorders: A systematic review

ObjectiveThis systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the effects optokinetic stimulation in people with vestibular disorders, with a specific focus on people with visually induced dizziness.Data sourcesA systematic review was conducted using three electronic databases, CINAHL, PubMed and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), from 2000 up to February 2024.Review methodsRandomised controlled trials were included, which compared: (a) adults above 18 years old with vestibular disorders, (b) the study evaluated interventions using optokinetic stimulation, (c) the intervention was compared with usual care; placebo or to no intervention, (d) the study included at least one outcome measure evaluating vestibular symptoms and (e) published in English. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the PEDro scale and PROSPERO's registration number ID: CRD42021273382).ResultsEleven randomised control trials, reported in 12 records, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All of the studies were considered to have ‘good’ methodological quality according to the PEDro scale. All studies showed significant improvement in vestibular symptoms in both the intervention and control groups. A meta-analysis performed on six of the records found a preference towards the addition of OKS to conventional vestibular rehabilitation helped to further reduce dizziness symptoms for patients, but the results were not statistically significant.ConclusionNo optimal duration or frequency for OKS has been determined. The addition of OKS to conventional vestibular rehabilitation may be beneficial in further improving vestibular symptoms in patients with dizziness. OKS could help to improve enjoyment and adherence to vestibular rehabilitation.