Preprint · Nov 14, 2025

Postural balance modulation induced by Taopatch® nanotechnology applied to hearing devices

By Fabris A, Campoli F, Di Corrado D et al.

Hearing and postural systems are interconnected, and auditory deficits are linked to balance impairment and fall risk in older adults. This study examined whether integrating Taopatch® nanotechnology—based on photobiomodulation—into conventional hearing aids could improve postural control. Forty habitual hearing aid users (mean age 77.3 ± 15.6 years) completed five postural assessments on a SensorMedica® platform: four with a placebo patch and one with the Taopatch® device. Static and stabilometric parameters were analyzed with eyes open and closed. Significant improvements occurred with Taopatch®: sway path length (–8%, p = .002), mean velocity (–8%, p = .002), and low-frequency sway (–30%, p = .04) decreased, indicating more efficient control. A lateral redistribution of plantar load and increased contact surface area (+15%) were also found. These preliminary findings suggest localized photobiomodulation may enhance multisensory integration and postural stability in older adults with hearing loss.

doi.org/10.22541/au.176310976.66760106/v1Open accessInterventions