From Crisis to Compensation-Early Physical Therapy to Address Symptoms Resulting From Vestibular Neuritis in 54-Year-Old Female: A Case Report

Bhupinder Singh and Ashley Van Artsdalen

Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health and Human Services, California State University, USA

^*Correspondance to: Bhupinder Singh 

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Abstract:

Background: Vestibular neuritis typically affects the superior vestibular nerve resulting in unilateral peripheral Vestibular Dysfunction (PVD). It is also linked to an increased rate of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Patients are typically prescribed medications to address the symptoms associated with acute vestibular crisis, but are not referred to physical therapy for treatment of lingering symptoms of PVD after the crisis has passed. Physical therapy has been shown to be safe and effective for reducing symptoms and improving function for patients suffering from chronic PVD, but early intervention has not been studied extensively.Objective: The purpose of this case is contrast the effect of early physical therapy intervention for a patient with symptoms resulting from acute vestibular neuritis with the traditional course of care.Case
Presentation: The patient was a 54-year-old female who was referred to physical therapy by an emergency room physician following diagnosis of acute vestibular neuritis. At time of evaluation, she was unable to independently perform many activities of daily living (ADLs). Examination revealed BPPV, motion sensitivity, and vestibular-ocular reflex dysfunction. Interventions included patient education, canalith repositioning maneuvers, habituation/compensation program, and gradual return to functional activities.Outcomes: At discharge, the patient had achieved all of her goals and reported no symptoms. In addition, the patient demonstrated no limitation with any ADLs.Discussion: The outcomes suggest that, for this patient, the chosen intervention resulted in complete resolution of symptoms. The key to the patient’s rapid success was early intervention and patient education. Due to the patient’s compliance and motivation, she recovered completely in less than three months.

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Cite the Article:

Singh B, Van Artsdalen A. From Crisis to Compensation-Early Physical Therapy to Address Symptoms Resulting From Vestibular Neuritis in 54-Year-Old Female: A Case Report. Ann Clin Case Rep. 2017; 2: 1431.