Effect of Vestibular Rehabilitation in Patients With Bilateral Vestibular Hypofunction

Bilateral vestibular function is a heterogeneous chronic condition characterized by bilaterally decreased or absent function of vestibular organs, vestibular nerves, or both.1 Patients present with various symptoms such as oscillopsia, imbalance, visual vertigo, cognitive deficits, autonomic symptoms, and impaired spatial orientation. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation on balance, dynamic visual acuity and quality of life in patients with bilateral vestibular hypofunction. Twenty patients diagnosed with bilateral vestibular hypofunction by videonystagmography were included in the study. Balance Tests, Visual Analogue Scale, Dynamic Visual Acuity, Dizziness Disability Inventory for quality of life, computer modified for Sensory Interaction in Balance Clinical Test (MCTSIB) tests and Limits of Stability test, which provides evaluation of body movements, which are an important part of balance, in all directions. Evaluations were made at 3 and 6 months before treatment. Physiotherapy sessions were given at two-week intervals. According to the development of the patients, they were asked to perform a home exercise program with 10 repetitions 3 times a day.