Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) when used as an add-on therapy for individuals with persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD). METHODS: In this randomized controlled, double-blind trial conducted at Shangluo Central Hospital, patients with PPPD diagnosed in the neurology departments were included. Participants were randomized into a rTMS treatment group and a control group in a 1:1 ratio by the randomized grouping method. Patients in both groups received conventional treatment, with the rTMS treatment group underwent daily rTMS sessions, whereas the control group received sham rTMS treatments following the same schedule. The effectiveness of the treatments was primarily assessed using the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD), which measured symptoms of vertigo, anxiety, and depression at baseline, after two weeks, and at the end of four weeks. FINDINGS: Of the 46 participants recruited, 2 were excluded due to contraindications, 22 were randomly assigned to the rTMS treatment group, and 22 were assigned to the control group. Ultimately, 2 withdrew for personal reasons, and data from 42 participants were included in the outcome analysis. HAMA, HAMD and DHI scores were significantly lower in the rTMS treatment group than in the control group after 4 weeks of treatment (p<0.05). A positive correlation was also observed between DHI scores and HAMA or HAMD scores. CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study demonstrated that rTMS is a beneficial add-on therapy for patients with PPPD.