Dizziness Among Patients with Whiplash-Associated Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Author： Hansson Eva Ekvall Månsson Nils-Ove Ringsberg Karin A.M. Håkansson Anders

ISSN： 1650-1977

Source： Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, Vol.38, Iss.6, 2006-11, pp. : 387-390

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Abstract

Objective: To investigate whether vestibular rehabilitation for patients with whiplash-associated disorder and dizziness had any effect on balance measures and self-perceived handicap.Design: Randomized, controlled trial.Subjects: Twenty-nine patients, 20 women and 9 men, age range 22–76 years.Methods: The patients were randomized to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention comprised vestibular rehabilitation. All patients were assessed at baseline, after 6 weeks and after 3 months with 4 different balance measures and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory.Results: After 6 weeks, the intervention group showed statistically significant improvements compared with the control group in the following measures: standing on one leg eyes open (p=0.02), blindfolded tandem stance (p=0.045), Dizziness Handicap Inventory total score (p=0.047), Dizziness Handicap Inventory functional score (p=0.005) and in Dizziness Handicap Inventory physical score (p=0.033). After 3 months, the intervention group showed statistically significant improvements compared with the control group in the following measures: standing on one leg eyes open (p=0.000), tandem stance (p=0.033) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory physical score (p=0.04).Conclusion: Vestibular rehabilitation for patients with whiplash-associated disorder can decrease self-perceived handicap and increase postural control.