October 2026 Newsletter Highlights

Vestibular Dysfunction and Mental Health Update:

A real-world cohort study looked at patients with vestibular dysfunction and negative emotions. Cognitive behavioral therapy combined with rehabilitation training was associated with greater improvements in dizziness, somatic symptoms, and anxiety/depression than conventional care. Most outcomes improved early, while the physical component of dizziness-related disability separated between groups later.

Gao L, Huang M, Yang X, Liang X, Li L, Yu L, Ma S and Xiao H (2026) The effect of combined cognitive behavioral therapy and rehabilitation training on negative emotions of patients with vestibular dysfunction: a real-world cohort study. Front. Public Health 14:1923062. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1923062

Concussion and Mental Health Update:

A secondary analysis of an RCT, followed adults with mild-tomoderate TBI who were on sick leave 8 to 12 weeks after injury. The group-based intervention paired a 10-week compensatory cognitive training program with up to six months of individualized supported employment. Researchers tracked post-concussion symptoms, depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7) at 3, 6, and 12 months. The authors conclude that the combined approach may reduce cognitive symptom burden in the first year after injury beyond traditional management. They also note that emotional distress is common after concussion, and that future interventions should add structured psychological components to support emotional recovery.

Andelic N, et al. Brain Inj. 2026;40(8):697-704. doi:10.1080/02699052.2026.2654829 

Physical Therapy Spotlight

Physical therapists in neurologic rehab bring specialized expertise in conditions like concussion, vestibular disorders, stroke, and TBI, where dizziness, balance impairment, and emotional distress often overlap. Many of these patients also have musculoskeletal contributors, such as cervical dysfunction, deconditioning, or pain that limits recovery. Close collaboration with ortho PT colleagues lets clinics address both sides of the picture: neurologic PTs can guide vestibular, oculomotor, and graded exercise progressions, while orthopedic PTs can treat neck and movement impairments that may be driving symptoms. Shared screening, open referrals, and regular case conversations help patients avoid fragmented care and move toward recovery with a more coordinated plan.