Postural Restriction in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Objective: We compared the efficacy between addition of post-maneuver postural restriction, and that of the modified Epley’s maneuver alone.Material and Methods: One hundred eighty patients with posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo were divided into two groups, using a block of four randomization. Group A were instructed to avoid head movement for 48 hours after the modified Epley’s maneuver. Group B were treated with the modified Epley’s maneuver alone. DixHallpike test and dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) scores were assessed at 1 and 2 weeks, and followed up for 48 weeks to assess recurrent symptoms.Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of changes from a positive to a negative Dix-Hallpike test; while the DHI score and recurrence rate were significantly lower in group A (p-value 0.042).Conclusion: Postural restriction after the modified Epley’s maneuver can improve the DHI score, and reduce the recurrence rate of vertigo, compared with the modified Epley’s maneuver alone.