TheEpley maneuveris an effective treatment for an inner ear disorder calledbenign paroxysmal positional vertigo(BPPV).

These canals contain balance receptors, which is why the deposits cause vertigo.

This article goes over the Epley maneuver and how to do it safely at home.

A woman who is sitting because of her vertigo

Supersizer / Getty Images

What Is the Epley Maneuver?

For those with BPPV, the maneuver can be very beneficial.

No video or list of instructions can substitute for a demonstration.

Don’t diagnose yourself with BPPV

There are manycauses of dizziness.

For this reason, you should always see a healthcare provider to find the cause of your dizziness.

Up to 90% of those treated with the Epley maneuver experience complete relief after one maneuver.

However, you should always see a healthcare provider before you attempt the maneuver at home.

If you have back or neck problems, the maneuver could cause injury.

The home Epley maneuver may also not be safe for people with vascular conditions or retinal detachment.

Can the Epley Maneuver Make Vertigo Worse?

Some people experience a worsening of symptoms after the Epley maneuver.

What to Expect After Epley Maneuver

Some people experience immediate symptom relief after the Epley maneuver.

Others, though, may need to perform the maneuver a few times before they start to feel better.

After your symptoms have resolved, you don’t need to keep doing the Epley maneuver.

Keep in mind that BPPV sometimes comes back, though it may be weeks or months later.

Once your symptoms have resolved, you should be able to return to all of your regular activities.

You may be doing the maneuver incorrectly.

If your vertigo goes away and then comes back, try performing the Epley maneuver again.

If it doesn’t work, see your healthcare provider.

Even if the Epley maneuver works, you still need to see your healthcare provider regularly.

According to most experts, BPPV usually resolves within about six months.

People with this condition have calcium deposits in the semicircular canals of the inner ear.

The maneuver dislodges the deposits, leading to an improvement in symptoms.

However, you should always see your healthcare provider first.

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