BPPV and Epley Maneuver: A Simple Treatment for Vertigo
If you have ever experienced sudden dizziness, a spinning sensation when you change positions, or a feeling like the room is moving around you, you may have a condition called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This is a common inner ear problem that affects balance and can make daily activities difficult. The good news is that BPPV is usually very treatable,with a simple procedure called the Epley maneuver.
What Is BPPV?
BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals, which are normally located in one part of the inner ear, become dislodged and move into another part of the inner ear canals. These crystals interfere with your sense of balance, causing short bursts of vertigo, especially when you tilt your head, lie down, roll over in bed, or look up.
What Is the Epley Maneuver?
The Epley maneuver is a safe, non-invasive series of head and body movements designed to move the displaced crystals back to their proper place in the inner ear. Once the crystals are repositioned, symptoms of vertigo typically improve or go away completely.
What to Expect During the Maneuver
Your doctor or physical therapist will guide you through the following steps:
- Start seated upright on an examination table or bed.
- Your head is turned about 45 degrees to one side (toward the affected ear).
- You are then quickly laid back with your head slightly hanging off the edge of the bed, still turned to the side. This may briefly bring on vertigo.
- After about 30 seconds, your head is slowly turned to the opposite side.
- Your body is then rolled onto the side that your head is now facing, while keeping the head in the same position.
- Finally, you are slowly brought back up to a sitting position.
The entire process usually takes just a few minutes. In some cases, it may need to be repeated more than once.
Is It Effective?
Yes! The Epley maneuver has a very high success rate, with most people experiencing significant improvement in their symptoms by following it 6-7 times a day. If symptoms return, the maneuver can be safely repeated.