The Practice of Vestibular Rehabilitation for a Patient of Right Thalamic Hemorrhage with Impaired Balance Function and Dizziness

Abstract

Objective: This case report describes the improvement in balance function and dizziness in a patient with right thalamic hemorrhage following vestibular rehabilitation, including balance exercises.

Patient: A 70-year-old male with a right thalamic hemorrhage exhibited mild motor paralysis and decreased somatosensation. Despite these mild impairments, the patient experienced unsteadiness when standing and turning while walking, necessitating constant supervision for activities of daily living (ADL).

Methods: Vestibular rehabilitation including balance exercises were conducted for a month.

Results: One month after the vestibular rehabilitation, the participant’s performance on the Subjective Visual Vertical, Head Impulse Test, Mini-Balance Evaluation Test, 10 m walking speed and Timed Up and Go Test improved. Further, the dizziness resolved. All parameters of the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction and Balance using a force platform improved when eyes remained closed. He could independently walk during his ADL.

Conclusion: Vestibular rehabilitation for a patient with right thalamic hemorrhage and decreased vestibular function may improve his balance function.