What is BPPV?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo — caused by calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) that have become dislodged from the utricle and migrated into the semicircular canals.

The Epley Manoeuvre

The Epley canalith repositioning procedure guides the dislodged crystals back to the utricle through a series of head positions. Each position is held for 30 seconds. The complete manoeuvre takes approximately 3–5 minutes.

Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. Sit on the edge of the treatment table. 2. Turn head 45° toward the affected ear. 3. Quickly lie back with head still turned 45° (hang off table end). Hold 30 seconds. 4. Turn head 90° to opposite side. Hold 30 seconds. 5. Roll onto the opposite side, face toward floor. Hold 30 seconds. 6. Sit up slowly.

After the Epley Manoeuvre

Expect mild unsteadiness for 24 hours. Avoid bending forward, looking up sharply, or lying on the affected side for 48 hours. The majority of patients experience complete resolution within 1–3 sessions.