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1 in every 10 people world-wide suffers from vertigo to the point where it affects their quality of life. In Malaysia, 1.9 million people are estimated to be suffering from the same problem and to date there is no comprehensive treatment to help them overcome their problem.

However, now, patients from throughout the world have the opportunity to receive a treatment module that is not only effective but also the first of its kind in the world. This treatment module was the product of research carried out by a team of researchers from the School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia.

Bal Ex: Home-Based Video Module for Balance Exercise was produced in the form of a video module by Dr. Zuraida Zainun, a lecturer from the School of Medical Sciences and her team of researchers. Not only can this treatment module help to overcome the problem of vertigo but patients do not have to go to the hospital as they can carry out this treatment in the comfort of their own homes.

This makes it more convenient for the patient and at the same time reduces the cost of treatment, especially for those in the ‘bottom billions’.

Dr. Zuraida was assisted by Prof. Dinsuhaimi Sidek, a Ear, Nose and Throat specialist from the School of Medical Sciences, USM; Dr. Mohd Normani Zakaria, a hearing specialist from the School of Health Sciences; Mohd Darimi Yusoff and Zamri Husain.

According to Dr. Zuraida, the treatment module comprises 20 movements at three levels, designed specifically to to enable each organ responsible for balance to function and respond to the brain and the spinal cord.

“It is very simple to use and with the help of a clear audio system, even those who are visually impaired can benefit from the treatment. Patients can see effective and swift results, that is within 3 months and the patient’s condition can revert to normal. So far 42 patients are undergoing the treatment which began in August 2008 and we have found that the number of patients who experience episodes of vertigo is decreasing. The patients are recovering well and more and more patients feel that their quality of life has improved compared to previously,” she said at a press conference to introduce the product.

According to Dr. Zuraida, in a case study that was carried out, a patient in her 40s and working as a teacher suffered from chronic vertigo, to the point where she was unable to carry out her duties well.

“She was unable to stand for long stretches, was unable to drive and had a phobia about being in crowded places as a result of her vertigo. However, she recovered after being on the treatment module for only two months,” Dr. Zuraida said.

Bal Ex: Home-Based Video Module for Balance Exercise is expected to hit the shelves soon, and is expected to cost less than RM 50. It will be marketed by Sanggar Sains Sdn. Bhd, a subsidiary of USM.

Those who are interested can contact Dr. Zuraida Zainun at drzuraida@yahoo.com or visit the website: http://bal-exercise.blogspot.com.

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