Effects of vestibular rehabilitation in patients with residual dizziness after treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

BACKGROUND

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a prevalent cause of vertigo. Although canalith repositioning procedures are effective, some patients continue to experience residual dizziness (RD) and balance disturbances that adversely affect daily activities.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the impact of vestibular rehabilitation on patients with RD following BPPV treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty participants were allocated into two groups: a rehabilitation group (Group 1) that received weekly physiotherapy and performed home exercises for six months and an aerobic exercise instruction group (Group 2) that attended bi-monthly sessions. Outcome measures included the modified Dizziness Handicap Inventory (mDHI), posturography, Functional Gait Assessment (FGA), and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS).

RESULTS

Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in mDHI and FGA scores pre- and post-intervention. However, only Group 1 exhibited a significant improvement in centre of pressure movement with eyes closed (COP EC) after the intervention. When comparing the two groups, post-intervention mDHI and COP EC scores showed significantly greater improvement in Group 1.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE

These findings suggest that vestibular rehabilitation may enhance dizziness resolution and postural control in patients with RD.