Vestibular Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis: Randomized Controlled Trial and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis...

Vestibular dysfunction occurs in 30% to 70% of cases with multiple sclerosis (MS).

To compare the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a customized vestibular rehabilitation (VR) program with a generic booklet-based VR intervention in people with MS with clinical signs of vestibulopathy.

People with MS and symptoms of vertigo and/or imbalance were screened for vestibulopathy (n = 73). Seventy recruited participants were randomly allocated to a 12-week generic booklet-based home program with telephone support (n = 35) or a 12-week customized VR program (n = 35, 12 face-to-face sessions and a home exercise program). The primary clinical outcome was the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) at 26 weeks post-randomization. The primary economic endpoint was quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Secondary outcomes included vertigo severity, balance, gait, and perceived impact of physical symptoms in MS.

There was no significant between-group difference in the DHI: mean reduction -1.76 (95% confidence interval -10.02, 6.50) at week 26 in favor of the customized group (P = .670). There were significant differences in favor of the customized group for vertigo symptom score, balance confidence, walking, and perceived impact of MS. Primary cost-effectiveness analysis showed customized VR to be less costly and more effective. However, removal of 2 cost outliers in sensitivity analysis resulted in a mean cost-per-QALY of £30 147. Customized VR was also cost-effective from a societal perspective.

Impairment level improvements did not translate into functional improvements as measured by the DHI perhaps reflecting that vestibular dysfunction is one of several impairments in MS. The findings indicate the potential cost-effectiveness of the customized program.

ISRCTN27374299.