Critical analysis of vestibular rehabilitation outcome according to dizziness etiology.
Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is an excellent therapy for dizziness patients. However, despite well managed, sometimes results are not suitable.


OBJECTIVE
evaluate VR outcome between patients according to dizziness etiology.


METHODS
Retrospective review of medical records.


METHODS
Patients records were analyzed between January 2002 and December 2004. As for inclusion criteria, patients should have had finished VR therapy and an established diagnosis. Patients were included in three VR outcome groups and compared according to etiology.


RESULTS
according to VR outcome 13 patients had no improvement, 24 had partial improvement and 22 complete improvement. The main etiologies were cervical syndrome, trauma, metabolic disorders, central nervous system disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, autoimmune disease and orthostatic intolerance. Patients with metabolic disorders showed better VR outcome than the others.


CONCLUSIONS
VR therapy combined with clinical etiology treatment is an excellent approach for dizziness patients.
Moreira Bittar
Roseli Saraiva
RS
PhD in Medicine, Assistant Physician at the Neurotology Ward - HCFMUSP.
Bovino Pedalini
Maria Elisabete
ME
PhD in Sciences, Speech and Hearing Therapist in charge of the Vestibular Rehabilitation Ward - HCFMUSP.
Oiticica Ramalho
Jeanne
J
PhD in Sciences, collaborating physician - Neurotology Ward - HCFMUSP.
Yoshimura
Ricardo
R
MD. Otorhinolaryngologist. Student of the Specialization course in Neurotology - FMUSP; Disciplina de Clinica Otorrinolaringológica do Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP.
D004244:Dizziness / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D004856:Postural Balance; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome