Effects of Vestibular Physical Therapy in Patients with Vertigo and Dizziness: A Systematic Review.

Background and purpose: Dizziness and vertigo are prevalent symptoms worldwide, ranking third among the most frequent consultations in Primary Care and Emergency Departments. These symptoms affect both sexes and tend to increase with age. In addition to their impact on health, they generate significant negative consequences on the quality of life of those who experience them, being a recurrent cause of functional dependence and work disability. The role of vestibular physiotherapy has grown considerably in recent years and has become essential in the therapeutic approach to vertigo and dizziness, playing a fundamental role in the readaptation of the vestibular system and contributing significantly to the improvement of these symptoms. The primary objective is to evaluate in the literature the effects of physiotherapeutic intervention as a treatment in patients with vertigo and/or dizziness. Methods: A systematic review of clinical trials was conducted using various databases including PubMed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search was restricted to randomized clinical trials published in the last 10 years, written in English and Spanish, and focused on the study of vertigo and/or dizziness. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Results: The results obtained indicate significant differences in the groups after the different vestibular physiotherapy interventions. Moreover, the combination with other methods proves to be beneficial in these patients. On the other hand, quality of life and mental health did not show statistically significant improvements in all studies. Discussion: Vestibular physiotherapy has shown positive results in patients with vertigo and dizziness. Whether applied alone or in combination with non-conventional approaches, this form of intervention not only alleviates the associated symptomatology but also significantly improves the quality of life of these patients.

Dizziness; Physical Therapy; Physiotherapy; Vestibular Rehabilitation

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