In this edition of “Striking the Right Balance,” Melissa Hazen, PhD, MSc, Aud(C), explores the overlooked role of vestibular function in children’s balance and development. Michael Vekasi, AuD, R.Aud, Aud(C), FAAA coordinates the “Striking the Right Balance,” feature which will cover the latest information on ‘all things vestibular.’ If you would like to be more involved in all things vestibular, please check out...
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✦ The floor
Discussion
Signed responses from readers of the wire.
Audiologists assessing children should routinely consider vestibular screening alongside hearing evaluation, as vestibular deficits may be missed and have downstream developmental consequences.
Vestibular dysfunction in children remains underdiagnosed within audiology practice, and raising awareness could prompt broader routine screening and earlier developmental intervention.
- 01Vestibular function is frequently overlooked in pediatric audiology assessments.
- 02Impaired balance function can negatively affect children's motor development and coordination.
- 03Children with hearing loss are at higher risk for co-occurring vestibular deficits.
- 04Audiologist Melissa Hazen advocates for integrating vestibular evaluation into standard pediatric care.
- 05Early identification of vestibular issues may improve developmental outcomes for children.
Vestibular function is underappreciated and routinely overlooked in pediatric audiology practice.
opinionpartially supportedVestibular deficits in children negatively impact balance and broader developmental outcomes.
studysupported- Journal
- Canadian Audiologist
- Publication type
- editorial
- Evidence level
- 5
- Population
- Children with potential vestibular and balance impairments
- Intervention
- Vestibular function assessment in pediatric audiology
Primary outcomes
Balance and developmental outcomes in children with vestibular dysfunction