Magnitude effects of galvanic vestibular stimulation on the trajectory of human gait

Abstract

This study examines the contribution of the vestibular system during different magnitudes of galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) during human walking. Anodal threshold levels of GVS were determined for right and left sides for each subject. Seven conditions were tested (no stimulation, left and right anode stimulation) at one, two and three times threshold. GVS was delivered to the mastoid processes at first heel contact and continued for the duration of the trial. All subjects responded by deviating towards the anode while walking. In addition, the magnitude of deviation increased as the stimulus intensity increased. Our results demonstrate that the vestibular system is sensitive to GVS intensity changes and responds by altering the magnitude of the response accordingly. These data provide a strong argument in support of a significant role for vestibular information during dynamic tasks.