Audiology and Parkinson's Institutes to Present New Medical Research on Parkinson's Associated Fall Prevention at …

Newport-Mesa Audiology, Balance and Ear Institute and The Parkinsons and Movement Disorders Institute will present medical research on Vestibular Dysfunction in Parkinsons Disease at the American Academy of Audiology research conference (AudiologyNOW!) in Boston, March 28-31, 2012. The new research suggests with proper testing, identification of vestibular abnormalities that affect balance can be treated with vestibular rehabilitation therapy preventing falls, a major source of fatality in Parkinsons disease.

Newport Beach, CA (PRWEB) March 15, 2012

According to the research abstract, Significant peripheral and central vestibular dysfunction was found in a group of nine Parkinsons patients of which only a third of the abnormality would be detected with traditional ENG/VNG testing. With proper testing, identification of these abnormalities can be treated with vestibular rehabilitation therapy preventing falls, a major source of fatality in Parkinsons disease.

Research presenters and contributors include:

According to Dr. Frei, imbalance and falls are commonplace in Parkinsons disease. Loss of postural reflexes is one of the cardinal features of the disorder, however this tends to occur several years following the onset of symptoms. Complaints of imbalance and dizziness are common in Parkinsons patients. The patients are often not clear when asked to describe their symptoms and many will state they feel as if they are going to fall. Oftentimes, descriptions of their symptoms are similar to vertigo.

According to Dr. Makuta, significant peripheral and central vestibular dysfunction in these Parkinsons patients was found. Traditional test standards identified vestibular weakness in 33 percent of these patients suggesting traditional test measures are insufficient to identify vestibular compromise. The abnormality found in more comprehensive testing reflects peripheral vestibular dysfunction. This data suggests a risk for vestibular weakness in Parkinsons patients increasing their imbalance and risk of falling. Utilizing the appropriate diagnostic tools is critical for an appropriate diagnosis and it is important to implement vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which may provide improvement of balance and reduce fall risk.

Researchers noted, much more research in this area needs to be done to confirm these findings using larger numbers of patients.

About The Parkinsons and Movement Disorders Institute:

Foremost, the physicians, research scientists and staff at The Parkinsons and Movement Disorders Institute (http://www.pmdi.org) all share the common goal of providing superior care to our patients in the treatment of neurological disorders affecting movement. It is our belief that people who must cope with symptoms or illness have enhanced quality of life when they understand their diagnosis and treatment plan, and when they are informed and active participants in their own health care. We also know that we learn and improve as physicians from our experiences with all of our patients. In our clinical practice we encourage a relationship of open communication between patient and physician. 9940 Talbert Ave., Suite 204, Fountain Valley, CA 92708.

About Newport-Mesa Audiology Balance and Ear Institute:

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