Dizziness in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Practice: Classification and Pathophysiology

Address all correspondence and request for reprints to: Peter Huijbregts Shelbourne Physiotherapy 100B-3200 Shelbourne Street Victoria, BC V8P 5G8 Canada [email protected] Abstract: Dizziness is a frequent complaint in patients presenting to orthopaedic physical therapists. Differential diagnosis of dizziness is complex but essential and requires knowledge of musculoskeletal, vestibular, cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, and psychiatric conditions, thus transcending the musculoskeletal boundaries of orthopaedic physical therapy clinical practice. Physical therapy intervention is not indicated for many causes of dizziness. Some types of dizziness present contra-indications to certain orthopaedic physical therapy interventions. This article presents a diagnostic classification system and relevant pathophysiology that may facilitate orthopaedic physical therapy diagnosis, screening, and subsequent appropriate physical therapy management or medical referral.