Yuşa Başoğlu
I am a lecturer with a PhD in Audiology from Istanbul Medipol University, where I also completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. My academic and clinical interests include vestibular rehabilitation, oculomotor control, and the use of technology—particularly virtual reality—in audiological assessment and therapy.
My doctoral thesis focused on the effects of application-based oculomotor, selective attention, and hand–eye coordination exercises on dynamic and static balance in patients with amblyopia. My master’s thesis examined the use of virtual reality-based rehabilitation methods in patients with peripheral vestibular hypofunction.
I have also been involved in research projects supported by TÜBİTAK, including a 2209-A grant project titled “Assessment of Visual–Vestibular System Interaction Across the Menstrual Cycle in Young Women.” These projects reflect an interdisciplinary perspective, combining elements of audiology, balance function, and neurosensory performance.
I have published articles in peer-reviewed journals indexed in SCI and ESCI, and have presented at several national and international scientific meetings. I also serve as a reviewer for journals such as the Turkish Archives of Otorhinolaryngology and the American Journal of Case Reports.
My current work focuses on developing clinically applicable methods for balance assessment and rehabilitation. I aim to contribute to evidence-based practices in audiology and to support the integration of digital tools into ENT and vestibular care.
Thesis & Project References:
1. Başoğlu, Y. (2025). The Effect of App-Based Oculomotor, Selective Attention, Hand-Eye Coordination Exercises on Dynamic and Static Balance in Patients with Amblyopia (Doctoral Thesis). Istanbul Medipol University.
2. Başoğlu, Y. (2021). Vestibular rehabilitation with virtual reality-based attention, gaze and posture exercises in patients with peripheral vestibular hypofunction (Master's Thesis). Istanbul Medipol University.
3. TUBITAK 2209-A Project (2023-2024). Evaluation of Visual - Vestibular System Interaction of Menstrual Cycle in Young Women.
Session
Description:
This panel will present an overview of the clinical application and efficacy of virtual reality (VR)-based vestibular rehabilitation in patients with peripheral vestibular hypofunction. By combining immersive visual stimulation with real-time feedback, VR exercises offer a novel way to enhance vestibular compensation and patient engagement.
Outcome Objectives:
- To explain the theoretical foundation and mechanisms of VR in vestibular rehabilitation.
- To present clinical data comparing traditional and VR-based approaches for patients with peripheral vestibular hypofunction.
- To discuss challenges related to cost, accessibility, and clinician training.
Background:
Peripheral vestibular hypofunction is a common cause of chronic imbalance, dizziness, and impaired quality of life. While conventional vestibular rehabilitation programs have been shown to be effective, they often suffer from poor patient adherence and limited engagement. The emergence of virtual reality technologies offers a compelling alternative by creating immersive, interactive therapeutic settings that are both customizable and engaging. VR platforms can simulate complex environments that challenge balance systems in a controlled and safe manner, enhancing the brain's ability to recalibrate sensory input and restore functional stability.
Recent pilot studies and randomized controlled trials suggest that VR-assisted vestibular rehabilitation may significantly outperform standard protocols in terms of symptom relief, adherence, and functional gains.