Determination of the effect of sensory functions onbalance in patients with vestibular migraine

This study was conducted to determine the effect of sensorial functions on balance in patients with vestibular migraine (VM). Sensory and balance functions of 30 VM patients who participated in the study were compared with 26 healthy volunteers. Light touch sensation was evaluated with Semmes Weinstein Monofilaments and vibration sensation was evaluated with 128 Hz tuning fork, and two-point discrimination distance with McKinnon-Dellon two-point discriminator. Balance was objectively evaluated with the Biodex Balance SD device. Also, functional balance measurements in all participants were performed with Activity Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and 5 Times Sit to Stand Test (5TST). The light touch sensation was decreased in the right-left 3rd metatarsal head and right heel, and the two-point discrimination was decreased in medial middle of the right-left foot and in the lateral middle of the left foot in VM patients compared to healthy controls (p <0.05), and also loss of protective sensation was detected in the VM group. There was no significant difference between two groups in terms of vibration sense and objective balance parameters (p> 0.05). The funcitonal balance parameters of VM patients were significantly worse than healthy subjects (p<0.05). Significant correlations were found between the sense of light touch, vibration, two-point discrimination, and functional and objective balance parameters in VM patients (p <0.05). The light touch, two-point discrimination sensation of the foot sole, and functional balance ability of VM patients are worse than healthy subjects. In VM patients, decreased light touch, vibration sense, and loss of the protective sensation are associated with impaired balance abilities. The relationship of sensorial loss with impairment in balance functions shows the importance of evaluating sensory functions in VM patients and adding them to treatment programs. Keywords: balance, sensorial function, vestibular migraine