J Korean Phys Ther.  2023 Aug;35(4):105-110. 10.18857/jkpt.2023.35.4.105.

A Comparison of Dizziness Handicap Inventory Scores with Stability Index and Fourier Harmony Index in Healthy Individuals

• Yeo SS
• Ryu HJ

• KMID: 2552697
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18857/jkpt.2023.35.4.105

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to determine whether the degree of dizziness affects static balance due to the disruption or absence of the senses involved in balance. To this end, the correlation between the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), which objectively evaluates dizziness, the Fourier Index (FI; Frequency bands of postural oscillation, F1, F2-4, F5-6, F7-8) and the Stability Index (ST), which evaluates static balance ability, were examined.
Methods
This study investigated balance and dizziness issues in 30 healthy young adults. Participants underwent multiple tests like the DHI and tetra-ataxiometric posturography (Tetrax) under different conditions (eyes open/closed, standing on a foam-rubber pillow, and with the head in various orientations).
Results
We found that F1 exhibited a weak positive correlation with dizziness under normal conditions, as well as when the eyes were closed (r= 0.396, p< 0.05) and the head was tilted back (r= 0.375, p< 0.05). Meanwhile, F5-6 showed a moderate positive correlation with dizziness in both head-back (HB: r= 0.471, p< 0.05) and head-forward postures (r= 0.404, p< 0.05). Lastly, both F7-8 and ST demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with dizziness when the head was in a forward posture (F7-8: r= 0.483; ST: r= 0.403, p< 0.05).
Conclusion
The study results indicate that the severity of dizziness affects sensory systems and balance. It also suggests that head movements, especially forward and backward, further stimulate the vestibular system, intensifying dizziness, and balance problems in affected individuals.

Keyword

Dizziness; Static balance; Fourier index; Dizziness Handicap Inventory; Stability index; Head position