Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of physical exercises used in the treatment of vertigo and balance disorders caused by vestibular dysfunction. The study group consisted of 30 patients (22 women and 8 men, aged 30-84) with vertigo and/or balance disorders of vestibular origin. Half of the patients (10 women and 5 men, aged 30-79) took the medicine. All patients attended in an individually selected programme of exercises dependent on diagnosis. The control group consisted of 15 patients (10 women and 5 men, aged 30-74) treated only pharmacologically. In order to investigate the effect of rehabilitation, a modified DHI questionnaire was used. For statistical evaluation, an analysis of variance with repeated measurements was performed. Statistical significance was assumed at a level of 0.05.In the group of patients who participated only in the programme of vestibular rehabilitation, an improvement of the questionnaire score was on average 48%. The result in the group performing exercises and additionally taking medication improved on average by 45%. In the control group only 15% of improvement was achieved. The difference in the results is statistically significant. 1. Vestibular rehabilitation has proved to be an effective treatment approach for vertigo and balance disorders caused by diseases of the vestibular system. 2. The age had no significant effect on the result of rehabilitation. 3. An improvement was noted, both in structural, functional and emotional aspects.

Key words:

vestibular system, vertigo, dizziness, balance, vestibular rehabilitation