Biomedical Research

The present study was designed to assess effect of controlled vestibular stimulation on stress, spatial and verbal memory scores in underweight female students. 8 cases of underweight participants and 8 age matched healthy (controls) of females were included in the present study by convenient sampling after obtaining voluntary, free, written informed consent. No vestibular stimulation was given for healthy participants (control group) and 28 days of vestibular stimulation was given for (intervention group) underweight participants. Vestibular stimulation was achieved by swinging on a swing, according to their comfort. (Back to front direction) as previously described. DASS scale was used to assess depression, anxiety and stress levels and Spatial and verbal memory test used to assess cognitive functions. Underweight participants are having higher depression, anxiety and stress scores than controls on day o and decreased followed by intervention. Within the underweight participants (intervention group), depression and stress scores was significantly lower on 28^th day when compared with day 0. Spatial and verbal memory scores were lower in underweight participants and improved after vestibular stimulation. Within the underweight participants (intervention group), verbal memory scores were significantly improved on 28^th day when compared with day 0. In conclusion, this study provides preliminary evidence for the beneficial effect of controlled vestibular stimulation in underweight female students. We recommend further detailed study in this area, to recommend vestibular stimulation for underweight students.

Author(s): Kumar Sai Sailesh, Archana R, Aruna Sajeevan, Mukkadan JK
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