Joshua Reed

Publication Date

1-1-2011

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Blaschak, Mary Jo

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Legacy Department

School of Allied Health and Communicative Disorders

Abstract

The following honors capstone research project considers the neurological disorder referred to as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo and typically effects individuals in the elderly population. BPPV usually results from free floating debris located in one of the semicircular canals within the inner ear. The symptoms of BPPV typically consist of episodes of dizziness or spinning (vertigo) accompanied by nystagmus (rapid involuntary eye movement). Even something as simple as looking to back a car out of a garage can cause the symptoms of BPPV to ignite. As a result, BPPV can have a significant toll on an individual's quality of life. As the older adult population continues to grow as a result of the aging baby boomer generation, the incidence and prevalence of BPPV will correspondingly increase. Several very successful treatment methods have been developed to properly identify and combat the symptoms of BPPV. Each of these treatment methods are very similar, but result with different outcomes. This project looks to uncover the best possible treatment method for BPPV based on previously completed research. In addition, this project examines BPPV at a physiological and anatomical level while also describing the symptoms, vocational implications, and examination techniques consistent with current research on vestibular disorders.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references.

Extent

13 unnumbered pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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