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Dizziness and Balance Disorders in a Traumatic Brain Injury Population: Current Clinical Approaches

  • Brain Injury Medicine and Rehabilitation (G Galang, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Balance deficits are frequently observed in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). This review seeks to explore the components of the balance system affected by TBIs and current interventions used to address the underlying impairments.

Recent Findings

TBIs result in a wide range of impairments often including imbalance and dizziness. The trauma can result in mechanical issues, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or central processing issues through damage to the vestibular nucleus and pathways. Both issues can be addressed through physical therapy. BPPV treatment involves using a series of positions to move the otoconia from the canal to the vestibules, whereas treatments for central processing issues involve improving sensory organization using exercises based on the system affected or teaching compensatory strategies.

Summary

Balance impairments are a common issue after TBI. Physical therapy can be used to treat these impairments, to reduce fall risk, to improve functional independence, and to improve quality of life.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. UPMC Mercy Brain Injury Unit, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 1400 Locust Street, Building D, Unit 6E, Brain Injury Unit, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA

    Regan G. Harrell, Chelsea J. Manetta & Michael P. Gorgacz

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  1. Regan G. Harrell
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  2. Chelsea J. Manetta
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Correspondence to Regan G. Harrell.

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Harrell, R.G., Manetta, C.J. & Gorgacz, M.P. Dizziness and Balance Disorders in a Traumatic Brain Injury Population: Current Clinical Approaches. Curr Phys Med Rehabil Rep 9, 41–46 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40141-021-00308-5

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