The use of telehealth technology in remote management of vestibular disorders: A scoping review

Background: Vestibular disorders affect approximately 34% of adults over the age of 50. Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is ideally provided by trained clinicians; however, access can be limited, particularly in rural and remote areas. Telehealth technologies offer alternative means of accessing healthcare. This scoping review aims to map use of telehealth technology in VR. 

Methods: A systematic search of five databases (CINAHL, Scopus, ProQuest, PubMed and Cochrane) was conducted to identify relevant qualitative and quantitative studies from 2010 to 2025. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. Data were analysed and reported using a convergent segregated approach, in line with the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodological guidance for the conduct of mixed methods systematic reviews. 

Results: Forty-three articles were included. Telehealth modalities included smartphone applications (n = 18), telephone calls (n = 3), videoconferencing (n = 5), web applications (n = 14), and store-and-forward video technologies (n = 3). Telehealth technology was found to be accurate in recording oculomotor assessments and nystagmus, delivering canalith repositioning manoeuvres and undertaking outcome assessments. Improvements in health outcomes were demonstrated for subjective dizziness, balance, and oculomotor tests. Users reported telehealth technology to be feasible for remote VR with benefits including increased self-confidence with exercises, improved symptom awareness, and enhanced engagement and motivation for exercises. 

Conclusions: Telehealth technologies for VR show potential for improved health outcomes, diagnostic accuracy and positive user experience across a range of vestibular disorders. However, evidence for some vestibular disorders and telehealth modalities is limited by small sample sizes and a lack of studies. Further high-quality research is required in these areas.