Vestibular Rehabilitation in Saudi Arabia: Practice, Knowledge, and Beliefs of Physical Therapists.

Background

Vestibular physical therapy is a specific type of exercise intervention that is designed to treat symptoms caused by vestibular disorders and to enhance postural control. The level of expertise in the practice of vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) varies widely around the world. The practice of VRT is advanced in some countries, yet practice may be less advanced in others. No previous studies have evaluated the knowledge and beliefs of vestibular rehabilitation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to date. Objective. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and beliefs about VRT among physical therapists in the KSA.

Methods

We used an electronic cross-sectional survey containing 25 questions and divided into four sections: demographics, clinical experience, vestibular rehabilitation knowledge, and physical therapists' beliefs. The survey was answered by 219 licensed physical therapists.

Results

Of the 219 responders, 59 (27%) physical therapists reported having experience with VRT. A total of 119 (54%) participants felt confident talking to other medical members when managing persons with dizziness. Only 59 (26%) clinicians were using vestibular assessment techniques, and 103 (47%) clinicians used VRT if they had patients with vestibular disorders. The majority of physical therapists believed in the efficacy of vestibular rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Although the majority of physical therapists consider vestibular rehabilitation a crucial aspect of their practice, they acknowledge having limited knowledge of vestibular disorders and treatment techniques.