Task-Dependent Balance Difficulties and Vestibular-Related Symptoms in Children With Speech Sound Disorder

Emerging evidence suggests that speech sound disorder (SSD) may involve broader sensorimotor involvement, including possible vestibular-related functional vulnerabilities, although these have not yet been explored. This study compared balance performance and vestibular-related symptoms in children with SSD and typically developing (TD) peers using the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) and the Pediatric Vestibular Symptom Questionnaire (PVSQ). Twenty-four children diagnosed with developmental SSD and 24 age- and sex-matched TD children participated. Balance function was assessed using the PBS, and vestibular-related symptoms were assessed using the PVSQ. The results indicated significant differences in tasks requiring greater reliance on vestibular inputs, higher levels of nausea, and unsteadiness in children with SSD than in TD peers. Children with SSD exhibited selective, task-dependent balance impairments and increased vestibular-related symptoms. These findings support the inclusion of balance and vestibular screening in the comprehensive assessment of children with SSD, even in the absence of overt motor or vestibular complaints.