Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Associate Professor, Department of Sport Injury and Corrective Exercise, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2
Department of Sports Pathology and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Kish, Iran,
3
Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
4
2. Department of Prevention of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran;
10.22037/sjrm.2025.117497.3399
Abstract
Background and Aims: Cochlear implantation is an effective intervention for auditory rehabilitation in individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. However, it may lead to balance and vestibular disorders or worsen existing symptoms. Physical, motor, and vestibular rehabilitation exercises, especially balance-focused interventions, are considered essential to improve motor function and quality of life. This systematic review aimed to assess scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of such exercises among cochlear implant users.
Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines and using the PICO framework, a systematic search was conducted in international (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Taylor & Francis) and Persian (SID, Magiran) databases for studies published between January 2015 and May 2025. Eligible studies included clinical trials, quasi-experimental, pre–post, or randomized controlled trials involving cochlear implant recipients with balance, gait, or motor outcomes. Two reviewers independently assessed study quality using PRISMA criteria.
Results: From 5,502 screened articles, nine studies met inclusion criteria. Participants ranged from children to adults with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss across diverse cultural backgrounds. Interventions most frequently included balance training, vestibular rehabilitation, virtual reality-based exercises, and group activities. Most studies demonstrated significant improvements in static and dynamic balance, reduction of vestibular symptoms, and enhanced quality of life. Nonetheless, methodological limitations—such as small sample sizes and short follow-up periods—were common.
Conclusion: Evidence supports the positive effects of physical, motor, and vestibular rehabilitation programs for cochlear implant users, particularly for improving motor performance, balance, and quality of life. Further large-scale, high-quality studies with extended follow-up are needed to strengthen clinical recommendations.
Keywords: Cochlear Implantation; Physical Exercise; Balance Rehabilitation; Quality of Life; Systematic Review
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