2018 Volume 77 Issue 6 Pages 549-556
In Japan, few physical therapists (PTs) can provide VBRT (vestibular and balance rehabilitation therapy) for patients with vertigo and/or dizziness, whereas in other countries, there are many reports of VBRT provided by PTs. Promoting collaboration among the medical staff is essential to construct a support system for patients with vestibular disorders. Therefore, we decided to offer VBRT, working together with PTs and clinical laboratory technicians.
Our VBRT consists of three steps (Step 1 to 3) and the contents increase in difficulty from Step 1 to 3. Every step is also divided into three parts-therapy for postural control, therapy for recovery of the vestibular ocular reflex, and therapy for the vestibular spinal reflex or aerobic exercise. Patients undergo VBRT for 6 months (2 months per step). To evaluate the effects of VBRT objectively, we adopted posturography, Functional Gait Assessment, video Head Impulse Test, and Subjective Visual Vertical.
For establishment of evidence for VBRT provided by PTs, clinical trials and studies are necessary.
