Self-reported physical activity differentiates vestibular migraine from persistent postural perceptual dizziness.

Abstract

Background: Individuals with dizziness often face balance issues and anxiety, which can result in reduced physical activity levels and decreased participation in their daily activities. Few studies have evaluated physical activity levels in individuals with chronic dizziness, and none have specifically focused on the two most prevalent types: vestibular migraine (VM) and persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD).

Objective: Evaluate self-reported physical activity levels in individuals diagnosed with PPPD and VM who are awaiting vestibular rehabilitation.

Methods: In a retrospective cross-sectional study, we extracted data from the electronic healthcare records involving 121 individuals presenting either VM or PPPD, referred for vestibular rehabilitation at National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London. Data on IPAQ (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) and DHI (dizziness handicap inventory) questionnaires were analysed across groups.

Results: The total sample consisted of 94 (77.7%) women and 27 (22.3%) men with a median age of 56 years old, ranging from 17 to 81 years (P25 = 41 and P75 = 64). Regarding the total sample, a minority (9.1%) of the individuals scored a high activity level on the IPAQ. We observed a significant difference between VM and PPPD in IPAQ score distribution (p = 0.039, Mann-Whitney). Within the category of high physical activity, a larger proportion of individuals had VM compared to PPPD. An inverse correlation was found between DHI and IPAQ (the lower IPAQ, the higher DHI) in the PPPD group (p<0.003).

Conclusions: In a sample of individuals with PPPD and VM referred for vestibular rehabilitation, only a minority demonstrated high physical activity levels on the IPAQ, with PPPD exhibiting lower activity levels compared to those with VM.