Stochastic Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (sGVS): The investigational intervention is a non-invasive, wearable vestibular stimulation system that delivers subsensory electrical stimulation via surface electrodes behind the ears. Stimulation is delivered at one of four levels (0.33mA, 0.67mA, 1.0mA, and 0mA sham) during standard clinical balance and mobility assessments (TUG and BERTEC). Participants are blinded to stimulation level during each trial.
Study summary
The goal is to assess the potential benefit of stochastic galvanic vestibular stimulation (sGVS) in improving patient performance with respect to balance, gait, and/or overall vestibular function for individuals with known deficits in vestibular performance as a result of a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).
Eligibility
Sex
ALL
Min age
18 Years
Max age
55 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion Criteria:
1. Age 18-55
2. Diagnosed with concussion, evaluated at the University of Michigan
3. Symptoms persistent greater than 4-6 weeks
4. Self-reported imbalance
5. Must be able to attend in-person session.
No racial/ethnic groups will be excluded, although all participants must be fluent speakers of English.
Exclusion Criteria:
1. Anyone under the age of 18 or over the age of 55
2. Presence of prior diagnosis of peripheral vestibulopathy
3. Women who are pregnant
4. Inability to complete testing (e.g., severe symptom burden, inability to stand unassisted).
Primary outcome measure(s)
Change in Postural Sway during mCTSIB Across Stimulation Conditions — Performance assessed when VIPES is worn and patient is completing the testing procedure. Comparison of sway area (deg/s) during mCTSIB at stimulation conditions (0.33mA, 0.67mA, and 1mA) in comparison to randomized Sham (0mA).
Change in TUG Time to Completion — Performance assessed when VIPES is worn and patient is completing the testing procedure. Comparison of time to complete the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (seconds) at stimulation conditions (0.33mA, 0.67mA, and 1mA) in comparison to randomized Sham (0mA).
Change in Postural Sway during COBALT — Performance assessed when VIPES is worn and patient is completing the testing procedures Comparison of sway area (deg/s) during COBALT at stimulation conditions (0.33mA, 0.67mA, and 1mA) in comparison to randomized Sham (0mA).
This page summarises publicly available registry data for informational purposes — not medical advice. Eligibility is determined by each study team; patients should discuss participation with their clinician.
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