Self-reported physical activity differentiates vestibular migraine from persistent postural perceptual dizziness

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Vestibular Disorders

Background:

• Chronic dizziness, encompassing vestibular migraine (VM) and persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD), is linked to reduced physical activity and daily function.
• Limited research exists on physical activity in chronic dizziness, particularly for VM and PPPD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess self-reported physical activity levels in patients diagnosed with PPPD and VM awaiting vestibular rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed data from 121 patients with VM or PPPD referred for vestibular rehabilitation.
• International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) data were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Only 9.1% of the total sample reported high physical activity levels.
• A significant difference in IPAQ score distribution was found between VM and PPPD groups (p=0.039), with VM patients showing higher activity.
• The PPPD group exhibited an inverse correlation between DHI and IPAQ (p<0.003), indicating lower activity with higher dizziness impact.

Conclusions:

• A minority of individuals with VM and PPPD referred for vestibular rehabilitation achieve high physical activity levels.
• Patients with PPPD demonstrate lower physical activity levels compared to those with VM, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.