A controlled trial of cognitive-behavior therapy combined with vestibular rehabilitation in the treatment of dizziness

Behav Res Ther. 2006 Sep;44(9):1265-73. doi: 10.1016/j.brat.2005.09.008. Epub 2005 Nov 15.

Abstract

Dizziness is a common and often untreated symptom in the general population. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a combined cognitive-behavioral/vestibular rehabilitation (VR) program, using a randomized control design. A total of 29 participants were randomized to treatment consisting of psychoeducation, vestibular exercises, relaxation and cognitive interventions, or to serve as waiting list controls. Measures of dizziness-related handicap, dizziness-provoking movements, and daily diary registrations of dizziness symptoms at pre- and post-treatment showed statistically significant improvements in many domains, which translated to moderate effect sizes. These findings provide preliminary support for the combination of Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and VR methods in the treatment of dizziness.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Dizziness / etiology
  • Dizziness / therapy*
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Head Movements
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vestibular Diseases / complications
  • Vestibular Diseases / rehabilitation