Web-based vestibular rehabilitation in persistent postural-perceptual dizziness.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Chronic dizziness, particularly persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD), significantly impacts quality of life.
• Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is an effective treatment, but access can be limited.
• Web-based self-help applications offer a potential solution for accessible VR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of a Norwegian web-based VR application.
• To evaluate the usability and effectiveness of the digital tool for patients with chronic dizziness and PPPD.

Main Methods:

• A 6-week, self-guided online VR program with educational content and exercises was utilized.
• Ten consecutive patients with chronic dizziness and high symptom burden were enrolled.
• Validated questionnaires (VSS, NPQ, PHQ-9, EQ5D-5L) and semi-structured interviews assessed outcomes and experiences.

Main Results:

• Nine out of ten patients completed the program, indicating good feasibility.
• The application was perceived as easy to use and instructive, despite challenges with exercise load and motivation.
• Participants showed significant improvement in symptom burden, with an average reduction of 6.9 points on the Vertigo Symptom Score (VSS).

Conclusions:

• The Norwegian web-based VR application is feasible for patients with chronic dizziness and PPPD.
• The digital intervention demonstrates potential for reducing symptoms in individuals with long-standing dizziness.
• Further research is warranted to confirm efficacy in larger populations.