Evaluation of Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Different Dynamic Equilibrium Conditions

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aimed to investigate balance system modifications under different conditions using cervical Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (c‐VEMP) testing. Specifically, we examined vestibular compensation mechanisms in various dynamic balance positions through evoked potential analysis. Methods The study conducted c‐VEMP test repetitions on 45 healthy subjects under different conditions. Participants underwent comprehensive otoscopic examination and hearing and balance assessments, with only those demonstrating normal hearing included in the analysis. c‐VEMP testing was performed under three distinct conditions: condition 1 (standing on a flat surface with eyes open), condition 2 (standing on a flat surface with eyes closed), and condition 3 (standing on a FoamPad with eyes open). The analysis evaluated P1‐N1 latencies and amplitudes in c‐VEMP responses, with subsequent statistical analysis of the collected data. Results Analysis revealed statistically significant differences in P1‐N1 amplitudes and latencies in left ears when comparing conditions 1 and 2 ( p  < 0.01). Right ears demonstrated significant differences only in amplitudes between conditions 1 and 2 ( p  < 0.01). Comparison of conditions 2 and 3 yielded statistically significant differences in P1‐N1 amplitudes and latencies for left ears ( p  < 0.01), while right ears showed significant differences in amplitudes and N1 latency only ( p  < 0.01). No significant differences were observed in either ear when comparing conditions 1 and 3 ( p  > 0.05). Conclusion Our findings suggest that while the vestibular system is fundamental, visual input plays a more substantial role in balance maintenance compared to proprioceptive input. Level of Evidence 3.