Optimal Frequency for cVEMP in Users of Personal Listening Devices

The use of PLDs is linked to negative effects on the inner ear. Thus, the aim of this study is to identify the optimal frequency to test cVEMP in individuals using PLDs. A cross sectional comparative study was conducted on 128 individuals who were between the ages of 15-24 years with PLD exposure were divided into two groups: control group (history of PLD exposure for at least 1 h per day at a volume less than 60% of the PLD) and an experimental group (history of PLD exposure for at least 1 h per day at a volume greater than 60% for more than 1 year). Participants underwent MIRE and cVEMP testing using tone bursts of three different frequencies (500, 750, and 1000 Hz). Further, Latency, Peak-Peak Amplitude and Asymmetric Ratio of cVEMP responses were compared between the two groups. The data were analyzed using statistical tests such as Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal-Walli’s test. The findings revealed no statistically significant difference across frequencies in both groups. However, experimental group used higher output dBA values (75.4 ± 7.77 dBA). Similarly, reduced amplitudes, increased latencies and Asymmetric Ratio values were observed in experimental group suggesting a negative influence of PLDs on the vestibular system. A 500 Hz tone burst stimuli is observed to be the optimal frequency for cVEMP. However, higher values for all compared parameters of cVEMP in experimental group may depict the negative influence of PLD on the vestibular system.