Impact of vestibular rehabilitation therapy on quality of life and cognitive function in individuals with chronic dizziness or vertigo

Purpose: Dizziness and vertigo are among the most frequently reported complaints among patients across various medical and healthcare specialties. Studies have revealed that they are associated with cognitive impairments, particularly in older adults. While vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) alleviates physical symptoms, its effects on cognitive function remain underexplored. Hence, this study aims to assess the impact of VRT on the quality of life and cognitive performance of individuals with chronic dizziness or vertigo. Methods: This was a randomized control trial in which 60 participants experienced chronic dizziness or vertigo. The participants were assigned to either the medication-only group receiving betahistine or the VRT + medication group receiving VRT combined with betahistine. Quality of life was measured via the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Cognitive performance was assessed via a digit span test, task-switching test, and recording of P300 response. Results: The VRT + Medication group showed significant improvements in cognitive performance, particularly in the digit span and task-switching tests, with reduced P300 response latency and increased amplitude. No significant cognitive changes were observed in the medication-only group. Both groups showed improvement in quality of life, with a greater reduction in DHI scores observed in the VRT + Medication group. Conclusion: VRT combined with medication significantly improves cognitive function and quality of life in individuals with chronic dizziness or vertigo. These findings suggest that VRT not only addresses physical symptoms but also enhances cognitive performance, highlighting its potential as a comprehensive therapeutic approach. Trial registration: The study protocol was registered in the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI number: CTRI/2020/03/023934).