Team Approach to Delayed Pediatric Vestibular Diagnosis: A Case Study

Abstract

Background and Purpose: This report highlights the challenges of diagnosing pediatric vestibular neuritis following dental treatment and addressing fear avoidance behaviors. Case Description: An 11-year-old boy came to physical therapy with vestibular dysfunction following dental treatment that was unable to be diagnosed by emergency department staff. The participant received multispecialty treatment for 6 weeks. Measurements: Computerized Dynamic Posturography, Limits of Stability, Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Functional Gait Assessment, Dynamic Visual Acuity, and Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance. Outcomes: Most notable improvements were seen in Limits of Stability and Computerized Dynamic Posturography. The participant made a full return to school and sport. Conclusions: The difficulty of pediatric vestibular neuritis diagnosis led to fear avoidance behaviors that were addressed by a collaborative specialty approach. What This Adds to Evidence: This is the first documented case of pediatric vestibular neuritis as a complication of a dental procedure with intervention focused on fear avoidance behaviors.