Vestibular Rehabilitation for Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness: A Case Report
Document Type
Poster
Start Date
28-4-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
28-4-2026 2:00 PM
Description
Introduction: Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) is a chronic vestibular disorder characterized by persistent dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo lasting longer than three months and worsened by upright posture, motion, and vis ually complex environments. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) has demonstrated potential for reducing symptoms; however, research identifying optimal intervention strategies remains limited.
Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to descri be the outcomes of a vestibular rehabilitation program emphasizing habituation-based interventions in a patient with PPPD. Methods: A 19-year-old female presented to outpatient physical therapy with a six-month history of persistent lightheadedness and dizziness following a panic episode. Symptoms were exacerbated by upright activities and visually complex environments and resulted in withdrawal from college coursework. Examination findings suggested a vestibular impairment of probable central origin c onsistent with diagnostic criteria for PPPD. The patient completed eight sessions of VRT over six weeks consisting of gaze stabilization, habituation, and balance exercises, with a strong emphasis on habituation-based activities. Outcome measures included the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and the Functional Gait Assessment (FGA).
Results: The patient demonstrated improvement in perceived disability and balance. DHI scores improved from 86 (severe handicap) to 58 (moderate handicap). At dis charge, the patient scored 26/30 on the FGA, indicating no increased fall risk.
Discussion: These findings suggest that vestibular rehabilitation therapy emphasizing habituation may reduce symptom severity and improve functional outcomes in individuals with PPPD. Further research is needed to determine optimal intervention protocols and dosage
Recommended Citation
Stassi, Chris, "Vestibular Rehabilitation for Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness: A Case Report" (2026). School of Allied Health Professions Research Day. 15.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/ahrd/2026/posters/15
Vestibular Rehabilitation for Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness: A Case Report
Introduction: Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) is a chronic vestibular disorder characterized by persistent dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo lasting longer than three months and worsened by upright posture, motion, and vis ually complex environments. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) has demonstrated potential for reducing symptoms; however, research identifying optimal intervention strategies remains limited.
Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to descri be the outcomes of a vestibular rehabilitation program emphasizing habituation-based interventions in a patient with PPPD. Methods: A 19-year-old female presented to outpatient physical therapy with a six-month history of persistent lightheadedness and dizziness following a panic episode. Symptoms were exacerbated by upright activities and visually complex environments and resulted in withdrawal from college coursework. Examination findings suggested a vestibular impairment of probable central origin c onsistent with diagnostic criteria for PPPD. The patient completed eight sessions of VRT over six weeks consisting of gaze stabilization, habituation, and balance exercises, with a strong emphasis on habituation-based activities. Outcome measures included the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and the Functional Gait Assessment (FGA).
Results: The patient demonstrated improvement in perceived disability and balance. DHI scores improved from 86 (severe handicap) to 58 (moderate handicap). At dis charge, the patient scored 26/30 on the FGA, indicating no increased fall risk.
Discussion: These findings suggest that vestibular rehabilitation therapy emphasizing habituation may reduce symptom severity and improve functional outcomes in individuals with PPPD. Further research is needed to determine optimal intervention protocols and dosage