What Is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of dizziness related to the inner ear.
Although symptoms can feel alarming, BPPV is a treatable condition that often improves with proper diagnosis and care.
At Tri Rehab, we frequently help patients in Dearborn and Canton, Michigan who are experiencing dizziness, vertigo,
or balance issues related to BPPV.
What Is BPPV?
BPPV is a disorder characterized by brief episodes of dizziness or vertigo triggered by changes in head position.
Vertigo is the sensation that the room is spinning, even when you are still.
Common triggers include:
- Rolling over in bed
- Reclining or sitting up
- Tilting the head backward
- Bending forward at the waist
These dizzy spells may last only seconds or minutes, but they can significantly disrupt daily life.
What Causes BPPV?
BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals (called otoconia) become dislodged within the inner ear.
When these crystals move into the semicircular canals, they send incorrect signals to the brain, triggering vertigo.
BPPV may develop after:
- Head trauma
- Inner ear infection
- Aging-related changes
How Is BPPV Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your healthcare provider may observe
your eye movements (nystagmus) during specific positional tests to determine the affected ear and canal.
If results are unclear, additional testing may be recommended, including:
- Hearing tests (audiogram)
- MRI imaging
- Advanced vestibular testing
How Is BPPV Treated?
1. Observation
In some cases, BPPV may resolve on its own over time. However, symptoms can persist and interfere with daily activities.
2. Repositioning Maneuvers
The most effective treatment involves specific repositioning maneuvers designed to guide the loose crystals
back to their proper location in the inner ear. These can be performed in the clinic or taught for home use.
3. Surgery (Rare)
Surgery is considered only when other treatments fail and carries additional risks.
When Physical Therapy Is Needed
Some patients may continue to experience dizziness or balance issues even after repositioning maneuvers.
In these cases, physical therapy may focus on:
- Improving overall balance
- Strengthening the legs
- Reducing dizziness during daily activities
- Restoring confidence with movement
Get Help for Vertigo and Balance Issues
If dizziness or vertigo is affecting your daily life, help is available. BPPV is highly treatable, and early
intervention often leads to faster relief.
Visit www.trirehab.com to learn more about balance therapy and
vestibular rehabilitation at Tri Rehab, proudly serving Dearborn and Canton, Michigan.
Content provided by Tri Rehab, Inc.
Source: Katherine Heidenreich, MD, Associate Professor, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (6/30/2021),
McGovern Medical School
