As a practitioner dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with chronic vestibular syndrome, it is essential to stay updated with the latest research and interventions. A recent study titled Internet based vestibular rehabilitation with and without physiotherapy support for adults aged 50 and older with a chronic vestibular syndrome in general practice: three armed randomised controlled trial offers significant insights into effective treatment methods. This blog explores the outcomes of this study and how you can implement these findings in your practice to enhance patient care.
Key Findings of the Study
The study compared three groups: stand-alone internet-based vestibular rehabilitation (VR), blended VR with physiotherapy support, and usual care. The results demonstrated that both stand-alone and blended VR significantly reduced vestibular symptoms compared to usual care. Here are some key outcomes:
- Participants in both VR groups reported fewer vestibular symptoms at three and six months follow-up.
- There was a significant reduction in dizziness-related impairment and anxiety symptoms.
- Participants in the VR groups experienced more subjective improvement in their vestibular symptoms.
- No serious adverse events related to the VR interventions were reported.
Implementing the Findings in Your Practice
Given the positive outcomes of the study, consider integrating internet-based VR into your practice. Here are some steps to get started:
- Assess Patient Suitability: Identify patients aged 50 and older with chronic vestibular syndrome who may benefit from VR. Ensure they have access to the internet and are comfortable with online interventions.
- Introduce Stand-Alone VR: Provide patients with access to a six-week, internet-based VR program that includes weekly online sessions and daily exercises. This approach is effective and easily accessible.
- Consider Blended VR: For patients who may benefit from additional support, incorporate physiotherapy sessions alongside the online VR program. Physiotherapy support can help address any concerns and encourage adherence to the program.
- Monitor Progress: Regularly check in with patients to assess their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their VR program. Use tools like the Vertigo Symptom Scale-Short Form (VSS-SF) to measure outcomes.
- Educate and Encourage: Provide patients with information on the benefits of VR and encourage them to stay committed to the program. Highlight the potential for significant improvements in their vestibular symptoms.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of internet-based VR, there is always room for further research. Consider collaborating with other practitioners or institutions to explore additional aspects of VR, such as the optimal quantity and quality of physiotherapy support in blended VR. Engaging in research can contribute to the development of even more effective interventions for chronic vestibular syndrome.
By implementing the findings of this study, you can offer your patients a clinically effective and safe treatment option for chronic vestibular syndrome. Internet-based VR has the potential to improve care for an undertreated group of patients and enhance their quality of life.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Internet based vestibular rehabilitation with and without physiotherapy support for adults aged 50 and older with a chronic vestibular syndrome in general practice: three armed randomised controlled trial.
