The Effect of Vestibular Rehabilitation on Dizzines and Balance in Patient with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is caused by thedestruction of myelin in central nervous system which leads to functional disabilities. Balancing problems are the most common dysfunctions and dizziness is known as its first sign in these patients.This study aimed to assessthe effects of vestibular rehabilitation by Cawthorne & Cooksey exercises on balance and the following disabilities caused by dizziness in patients with MS. Materials and Methods: This study was a semi-experimental research with pre-test and post-test. Subjects of this study were 30 women with Multiple sclerosis regardless of the type of MS and dizziness that were divided into control and experimental groups. Experimental group performed the exercise protocol for a 12 week period and 3 times per day for 5-15 minutes. Berg balance scale (BBS) was used to access the balance and (Dizziness Handicap Inventory) DHI questionnaire was used to accessing the dizziness before and after intervention. Results: The results showed that, after finishing exercise protocol, in experimental group there was a significant difference in patient with MS, whereas there was no significant difference between pre and post-test in control group. Conclusion: Cawthorne & Cooksey exercises as a non-invasive method can be an effective therapy to improving the balance and disability caused by dizziness in patients with MS