Exploring the Feasibility of an Adapted Home-Based Video Exercise Program for Primary School-Aged Children in Malaysia: A Preliminary Investigation

Abstract

Introduction

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) has demonstrated effectiveness in adults; however, evidence supporting its use in children remains limited. Given the potential developmental impacts of vestibular-related problems, it is essential to identify accessible and age-appropriate strategies for targeted rehabilitation in pediatric populations. In Malaysia, access to physical therapists trained in vestibular rehabilitation for children is limited, and logistical barriers often hinder regular clinic attendance. These challenges underscore the need for a home-based alternative.

Objective

This study aimed to adapt and evaluate the feasibility of a home-based video exercise program (HBVEP) for children aged 7 to 12 years old.

Results

The structured feasibility questionnaire revealed strong parental endorsement, with most responses ranging from “agree” to “completely agree” regarding the exercise program's acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility. Completion time data indicated that the exercises were manageable, and analysis of exercise preferences offered insight into which components were most engaging for children and parents.

Conclusion

The results support the practicality of the HBVEP as a targeted rehabilitation approach for school-aged children. It offers a flexible, low-cost alternative to in-clinic therapy. However, further research involving children with vestibular and balance impairments is needed to assess the full clinical utility and effectiveness of this intervention.

Keywords

vestibular rehabilitation therapy - home-based exercise module - feasibility - children - pediatric audiology

Note: All the listed exercises in the table were chosen based on these listed references; Bridging (Alves & Silva, 2019; Zulfiqar et al., 2022); Superman Pose (Alves & Silva, 2019; Zulfiqar et al., 2022); Gaze stabilization using the index finger (Lotfi et al., 2016); Gaze stabilization using thumb (Lotfi et al., 2016); Tandem walk (Fong et al., 2016); Toe tapping (Fong et al., 2016); Dynamic and static balance exercises (Alves & Silva, 2019); One leg standing (De Oliveira et al., 2019).

Short Blurb

This study explores the feasibility of an HBVEP for children aged 7 to 12 as an accessible alternative to in-clinic vestibular rehabilitation. Findings show strong parental support and highlight child-parent preferences that can inform future pediatric rehabilitation strategies.

Data Availability Statement

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate

This research was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the National University of Malaysia (reference number: JEP-2022–102). Also, written informed consents were obtained from all patients to participate in the research.

Consent for Publication

Written informed consents for publication were obtained from all parents of the participating children.

Authors' Contributions

N.H.A.W.: main idea for the development of the home-based exercise and finalizing the manuscript.

N.D.I.K.A.: data collection, recording of the video exercise, data analysis, and drafting of the manuscript.

N.A.Z.: inputs on the development of the home-based exercise and data analysis.

V.S.A.R.: data collection, recording of the video exercise, and data analysis.

M.K.A.J.: inputs on the development of the home-based exercise.

Publication History

Article published online:
05 November 2025

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