Multimodal Physiotherapy for Balance and Vertigo in BPPV Patients

Overview

This study aims to evaluate the effects of a multimodal physiotherapy approach on balance, vertigo, fear of falling, and quality of life in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a common vestibular disorder that causes dizziness and balance problems, leading to an increased risk of falls and reduced quality of life. In this randomized controlled trial, participants will be assigned to two groups: one receiving a multimodal physiotherapy program including patient education, Epley maneuver, and balance training, and the other receiving standard Epley maneuver treatment. The intervention will be conducted over four weeks. Outcomes will be assessed using standardized tools for balance, vertigo, fear of falling, and quality of life. The study aims to determine whether a combined physiotherapy approach provides better outcomes than standard treatment alone.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common vestibular disorders, characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position. It significantly affects balance, mobility, and quality of life, and increases the risk of falls, especially in older adults. Although repositioning maneuvers such as the Epley maneuver are considered the standard treatment, many patients continue to experience residual dizziness, imbalance, and fear of falling. A multimodal physiotherapy approach that combines patient education, vestibular rehabilitation, and balance training may provide a more comprehensive strategy to address these residual impairments. This approach targets both the vestibular and functional components of recovery, potentially improving overall patient outcomes. This study is a single-blinded randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the effects of a multimodal physiotherapy approach compared to standard treatment in patients with BPPV. Participants aged 22 to 79 years diagnosed with BPPV will be recruited using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups: the intervention group receiving patient education, Epley maneuver, and balance training, and the control group receiving only the Epley maneuver. The intervention will be administered three times per week for four weeks. Outcome measures will include the Dynamic Gait Index for balance, Dizziness Handicap Inventory for vertigo, Falls Efficacy Scale-International for fear of falling, and SF-36 for quality of life. Assessments will be conducted at baseline and after completion of the intervention. The results of this study will provide evidence on whether a multimodal physiotherapy approach is more effective than standard treatment in improving balance, reducing vertigo symptoms, decreasing fear of falling, and enhancing quality of life in patients with BPPV.