Gujar Khan

This research aims to evaluate the effects of combining mental imagery with vestibular rehabilitation exercises on vertigo, dizziness, and balance in young adults diagnosed with vestibular hypofunction. Vestibular hypofunction, affecting the inner ear sensors responsible for balance and eye movement control, can cause symptoms like dizziness and imbalance. The study is a randomized controlled trial including two experimental groups with about 22 participants in each. Participants will be randomly assigned to either perform only Cawthorne Cooksey vestibular rehabilitation exercises or perform these exercises combined with guided mental imagery sessions. The Cawthorne Cooksey exercises progress through phases from bed exercises to walking tasks, focusing on eye, head, and body movements to improve balance and gaze stabilization. The mental imagery involves mentally rehearsing movements to activate similar brain pathways as physical movement. Throughout the 8-week intervention, participants will be assessed using measures such as the Vertigo Symptom Scale, Dizziness Handicap Inventory, and Mini-BESTest to evaluate changes in dizziness and balance. Researchers will monitor how the combined therapy affects participants symptoms and function. The study is sponsored by Riphah International University and will run until December 2025.