Sections
Dizziness, Imbalance, and Vestibular Dysfunction: Introduction | Incidence, Prevalence, and Natural History | Anatomy and Physiology of the Vestibular System | Comprehensive History and Physical Examination | Diagnostic Testing | Posttraumatic Vestibular Dysfunction: Peripheral | Posttraumatic Vestibular Dysfunction: Central | Cognitive, Psychosocial, and Emotional Impact of
Dizziness and Vertigo After TBI | Long-Term Sequelae | Treatment: Vestibular Rehabilitation | Conclusion | Key Clinical Points | Recommended Readings | References
Excerpt
Since the 1940s, dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance
have been well documented and commonly reported sequelae of traumatic
brain injury (TBI) (Maskell et al. 2006). While long
recognized, the complex relationship between dizziness and TBI remains
incompletely understood. "Dizziness" in itself
is a nonspecific term that may encompass a wide variety of symptoms,
including vertigo, imbalance, disequilibrium, light-headedness,
altered coordination, and disorientation. Entangled and often inseparable,
these symptoms represent a complex continuum of sequelae that cross
vestibular, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. This broad spectrum
of symptomatology gives some insight into the diversity of pathology
present in the TBI patient. It is both the diversity and complexity
of injuries that pose unique diagnostic and treatment challenges
to the clinician.