Objective: This study evaluates the impact of occupational therapy-based virtual rehabilitation on dizziness, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in patients with peripheral vestibular disorders, highlighting the role of occupational therapy in innovative rehabilitation approaches.
Methods: A total of 10 patients were assessed using clinical examination, the Vertigo Symptom Scale (VSS), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). They were divided into two groups: one receiving conventional rehabilitation and the other undergoing occupational therapy-led virtual rehabilitation (5 patients per group).
Results: In the conventional rehabilitation group, VSS scores improved from 26 to 18.5, DHI scores from 23.5 to 20, and HADS scores from 29 to 22. In the virtual rehabilitation group, VSS scores improved from 27 to 15, DHI scores from 24.5 to 17, and HADS scores from 29 to 22. The virtual rehabilitation group showed greater improvements in dizziness symptoms and functional handicap, demonstrating the added value of occupational therapy in integrating digital health solutions.
Conclusion: Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in vestibular rehabilitation, particularly through virtual rehabilitation, which enhances patient outcomes by addressing functional limitations in daily life. These findings support the integration of occupational therapy-led virtual rehabilitation as an effective approach for managing vestibular disorders and improving quality of life