Epley repositioning maneuver versus Gans repositioning maneuver on postural instability in elderly patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), especially the elderly, often experience a greater incidence of falls and postural instability. The Epley repositioning maneuver has been proven to be effective in improving the postural control, whereas Gans repositioning maneuver (GRM) is still lacking data. Objective: The objective of this study was to compare between the effectiveness of GRM and Epley repositioning maneuver in improving postural stability in elderly patients with posterior canal BPPV. Patients and methods: In this randomized controlled trial, patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Group A (study group) was assessed by side-lying test and treated by GRM, whereas group B (control group) was evaluated by Dix–Hallpike test and treated by the Epley repositioning maneuver. Postural stability was estimated by computerized dynamic posturography. Results: Patients in both groups showed improvement within the groups in equilibrium scores subtest 4, 5, 6 (P<0.05), whereas there was no significant difference between groups (P>0.05) regarding equilibrium scores. Conclusion: GRM is as effective as the Epley repositioning maneuver in improving postural stability in elderly patients with posterior canal BPPV.