Effects of Habituation Exercises Versus Proprioceptive Training on Dizziness, Vertigo, Balance and Quality of Life in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most common presentation of peripheral vestibular disorder characterized by features like vertigo, nausea, vomiting, imbalance and increased risk of fall . Among all vestibular disorders, BPPV accounts for almost 20% and mostly affects the female gender as compared to the male gender. This type of disorder mainly involves the remoteness of otoliths in the semi-circular canal; most commonly the posterior canal is involved.

A comparative study on posterior canal BPPV including modified Epley procedure alone and Epley procedure combined with vestibular rehabilitation. This cross sectional study illustrated that the results of Epley maneuver only were as same as effectual as with VRT(vestibular Rehabilitation therapy) by reducing the symptoms of residual unsteadiness in that particular population. Among all vertiginous disorders BPPV is most common. Vestibular rehabilitation was conducted as therapeutic option and its effects on balance and quality of life were being assessed. Dizziness Handicap Inventory was being used as outcome measure scale.

The difference in signs of dizziness and quality of life in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo were investigated. Three groups were taken including one with BPPV, the second one with balance deficits (non-BPPV) and the last group involved healthy participants. The study concluded that the patients with BPPV had reduced HRQOL (health related Quality of life), tiredness and increased risk of fall. Dizziness associated with bed mobility is an indicator for the need of diagnoses and treatment thus, repositioning maneuvers had good impact on reducing the severity.

The effects of conventional vestibular rehabilitation recurrence rates on benign paroxysmal positional vertigo aimed to find the impacts on otolith dysfunction. Although repositioning movements were proved fruitful yet the recurrence rates were high in older population as compared to young. Vestibular therapy including habituation exercises decreases the risks of recurrence in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

As balance impairments are common in individuals with vertigo and dizziness. Proprioceptive training was proved more efficient than vestibular therapy in reducing the chances of fall in elder population. BBS (berg balance scale) and TUG (Time up and Go test) were conducted to assess balance and risk of fall in older people.