The Epley maneuver is an exercise performed to treat a type of vertigo called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is caused by a problem in the inner ear. It is often associated with aging, but head injuries can also cause it.
The Epley maneuver can be carried out by a doctor or at home by the individual experiencing BPPV to relieve symptoms
This article provides a step-by-step guide to the Epley maneuver and examines how the treatment works.
The Epley maneuver is a series of movements, normally carried out on a person by a doctor, to relieve the symptoms of BPPV. Research has found it to be an easy, safe, and effective treatment for the condition in both the long- and short-term.
The Epley maneuver is sometimes called the particle repositioning maneuver or the canalith repositioning maneuver.
These names are used because the maneuver involves a series of movements that help to reposition crystals in a person’s ear that may cause feelings of dizziness. Repositioning the crystals helps to relieve the person’s dizziness and nausea.
A doctor doing the Epley maneuver will manually move a person into a series of positions. It can also be done at home by the person experiencing the BPPV symptoms. The steps for both versions are detailed below.
It is best for a doctor to carry out the Epley maneuver if the person experiencing BPPV has not used this method before.
Once a person has had the Epley maneuver performed by a doctor, they may want to repeat the process at home if they have further symptoms.
A person experiencing BPPV symptoms can follow these steps to gain relief at home: