Safety of Repeated Sessions of Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation following Stroke: A Single-Case Study

Primary Objective: Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) involves the delivery of small electrical current to the part of the scalp that overlies the vestibular nerves. A single, brief session transiently reduces certain types of stroke impairment with no reported side-effects. It is anticipated that further reductions will occur if the duration and frequency of stimulation is increased. The aim of the present study was to assess whether this increased exposure is well-tolerated and consistent with patient well-being.

Methods & Procedures: GVS was administered to a stroke sufferer on 5 consecutive days, each for 30mins at an intensity of 1milliamp. Tolerability was monitored via a range of behavioural scales sensitive to side-effects experienced during and after stimulation.

Results: No unpleasant sensations were reported during stimulation and no deterioration in global function was observed over the 5 day period.

Conclusion: The results imply that repeated applications of GVS are tolerable at the parameter settings applied, and provide the basis for larger-scale investigations of safety and efficacy.