BPPV

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is one of the leading causes of vertigo among U.S. patients. Fortunately, repositioning maneuvers make BPPV easy to treat in most people. These maneuvers typically take only five to ten minutes and successfully treat BPPV in approximately 85 percent of patients within just a few treatments.


BPPV occurs when tiny particles of calcium (called canaliths) detach from the otolithic membrane in the inner ear’s utricle and move into the fluid-filled semicircular canals. When head movements cause these particles to shift, symptoms such as dizziness and vertigo can occur.

What BPPV Can Affect

BPPV can interfere with daily function and may cause:


  • Episodes of vertigo triggered by head movement


  • Dizziness or unsteadiness



  • Difficulty with walking or balance


  • Symptoms that increase risk of falls


Because BPPV can cause sudden vertigo episodes, evaluation and treatment are important.

What Causes BPPV

BPPV develops when calcium particles detach from the inner ear’s utricle and move into the semicircular canals. These canals normally help regulate balance and detect movement. When canaliths move within the canals during head motion, they send incorrect signals to the brain, resulting in vertigo.


When treatment begins, repositioning maneuvers are typically the first step. These medically developed exercises help remove the canaliths from the semicircular canals and return them to the utricle, where they can re-adhere to the otolithic membrane.

Treatment Options: Repositioning Maneuvers

Repositioning maneuvers are highly effective for treating BPPV and often provide relief quickly. Balance specialists use specific movements and angles to shift calcium deposits out of the semicircular canals.


Types of Repositioning Maneuvers


Common repositioning maneuvers include:


  • Canalith Repositioning Procedure (CRP) or Epley maneuver


  • Semont-Liberatory maneuver


  • Half somersault maneuver or Foster maneuver


After diagnosis, your ENT provider or physical therapist will develop a treatment plan based on your specific case of BPPV. Your provider will explain the recommended maneuver(s) and provide clear instructions.


Some patients need assistance from a balance specialist each time the maneuvers are performed, while others become comfortable performing the procedures at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How effective are repositioning maneuvers for BPPV?

    Repositioning maneuvers are very effective and successfully treat BPPV in approximately 85 percent of patients within just a few treatments.

  • How long do BPPV repositioning maneuvers take?

    Most repositioning maneuvers take about five to ten minutes to complete.

  • Can I perform repositioning maneuvers at home?

    Some patients can perform maneuvers at home after proper instruction, while others benefit from assistance from an ENT provider or physical therapist.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.