Evaluation of vestibular system-related functions in therapists practicing sensory integration

Sensory integration (SI) therapy is a commonly used intervention method, primarily implemented by occupational therapists. Due to the materials and activities involved in this therapy, clinicians are intensely exposed to visual and vestibular stimuli. This exposure may lead to issues such as dizziness and balance disorders among practitioners of SI therapy. Indeed, verbal reports from occupational therapists support this observation. Although some studies in related fields have addressed exposure to sensory stimuli, no research has been found focusing specifically on clinicians applying SI therapy. Therefore, this study investigated whether continuous and intense exposure to sensory stimuli among clinicians practicing SI therapy affects vestibular-related functions and leads to disability or limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs). Dizziness-related disability among clinicians practicing SI therapy was assessed using the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). To evaluate the level of activity limitations in ADLs associated with dizziness and balance problems, the Vestibular Disorders Activities of Daily Living Scale (VADL) was utilized. The questionnaires were distributed to occupational therapists and physiotherapists authorized to practice SI therapy via social media and email. The normality of the obtained data was assessed using histogram plots. The Sign Test was used to determine whether participants experienced significant levels of disability or limitations in ADLs. For comparisons between two independent groups not showing normal distribution, the Mann-Whitney U test was applied, while the Kruskal-Wallis H test was used for comparisons involving more than two groups. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software, and G*Power software was used for the power analysis. A total of 305 individuals participated in the study. Data from 232 participants who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. According to the findings, clinicians practicing SI therapy did not experience overall disability due to dizziness based on total DHI scores (p > 0.05); however, they did report disability in the emotional and physical subscales (p = 0.027 and p = 0.020, respectively). Additionally, when cases were classified based on variables such as age, gender, working in a rehabilitation center, years of experience, and use of Snoezelen equipment, some significant group differences were observed (p < 0.05). Moreover, analysis of total and subscale scores of the Vestibular Disorders Activities of Daily Living Scale indicated that therapists experienced limitations in ADLs associated with dizziness and balance issues (all p < 0.001). However, when the cases were classified according to variables such as age, gender, and years of experience, no significant differences were observed between the groups (p > 0.05). Clinicians practicing SI therapy appear to experience difficulties ADLs related to issues such as dizziness and balance disorders. In this context, adjustments to improve working conditions -such as reducing the number and duration of SI therapy sessions per day- can be recommended. Additionally, the distribution of SI sessions throughout the week could be planned in a more balanced manner. If therapists experience symptoms when exposed to visual-vestibular stimuli, it may be advisable to suspend sessions until the symptoms subside. Accordingly, regularly assessing SI clinicians' working conditions and health issues may be important. Furthermore, making sensory and ergonomic modifications in the work environment to reduce stimuli that may cause dizziness and balance problems can help protect clinicians from potential risks.