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Epley maneuver for positional vertigo
Epley maneuver · BPPV treatment · positional vertigo · canalith repositioning · dizziness when turning the head
The doctor turns your head and body in a set order. This moves tiny particles in the inner ear back into place, and the dizziness goes away.
When you feel dizzy for a few seconds when turning over in bed, bending down, or looking up.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 15 minutes; relief often comes right away or within a few days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Clothes. Wear comfortable clothes without a tight collar. Your head will be turned and you will lie down.
- Food. It is better not to come on a full stomach. You may feel sick during the maneuver.
- Getting home. Bring someone with you. It is better not to drive right after the procedure.
What to bring
- Your referral, if you have one
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- The doctor checks which ear is causing the dizziness
- You sit on the exam table, and your head is turned to one side
- You are quickly laid on your back with your head hanging slightly over the edge
- Your head is slowly turned to the other side
- Then you roll onto your side and look down
- Each position is held for about a minute, until the dizziness settles
- You are helped to sit up slowly
What you'll feel
- During the maneuver, you may feel very dizzy. This is expected
- Sometimes you feel sick
- After the procedure, you may feel a little unsteady for the day
Afterwards
- Sit for a few minutes before you stand up
- For the first day, move calmly and avoid bending over quickly
- The doctor may show you exercises for home
- Sometimes the maneuver is repeated at the next visit
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A severe headache, weakness in an arm or leg, or trouble speaking: call emergency services
- Dizziness that lasts for hours and does not depend on head position
- Severe vomiting, or you cannot stand
Common questions
Can I do the Epley maneuver myself at home?
Sometimes the doctor teaches you to do it at home. But first you need an exam to find out which ear and what the cause is.
Will the dizziness come back?
Sometimes it comes back after months or years. Then the maneuver can be repeated.