Relationship between self-perception of disability and stability limits in patients with vestibular disorders

Introduction: Vertigo and dizziness severely impair physical, emotional, and functional quality of life. The Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) captures subjective disability, while Limits of Stability (LOS) on the Balance Master assess objective motor performance and balance. Objective: To establish whether there is a relationship between limits of stability and DHI scores in patients with vestibular disorders. Method: An observational study including 125 patients (aged 20 to 79 years) with bilateral, unilateral, central, or vestibular dysfunction from the Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationship between DHI scores (total and subscales) and LOS parameters, as well as the Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction and Balance (CTSIB). Results: No significant associations were identified between the total DHI score and LOS parameters. Only weak negative correlations were observed between the functional subscale and maximum excursion, and between the emotional subscale and end point excursion. In contrast, the total DHI showed significant negative correlations with the CTSIB. Conclusions: Self-perceived disability (DHI) and objective postural stability (LOS) are independent and complementary measures. The DHI correlates better with tests that challenge sensory integration (CTSIB).