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

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Vestibular rehabilitation; benign paroxysmal positional vertigo; dizziness handicap inventory; postural control; residual dizziness.