Management of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) post head injury: Case Study from the emergency department

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Head trauma can cause secondary benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a common peripheral condition which can lead to significant morbidity, psychosocial impact and increased medical costs [1]. CASE DESCRIPTION: A patient post fall with an associated head trauma presented to the emergency department with severe vertigo, nausea, and decreased mobility. The patient was assessed and treated by a vestibular trained physiotherapist. The patient was treated with one Epley repositioning manoeuvre and had complete resolution of symptoms and was discharged home the same day. CONCLUSION: BPPV can be successfully identified and treated by vestibular trained physiotherapists in the emergency department. Early access to vestibular trained physiotherapy in the emergency department resulted in diagnosis and evidence-based treatment of BPPV which prevented hospital admission and improved this patient’s outcome. The patient had complete resolution of symptoms post the repositioning manoeuvre and was discharged to home.