Understanding Vertigo and Dizziness: A common condition and how chiropractors can help
- mattbulmandc
- Apr 13
- 2 min read
Understanding BPPV: A Common Cause of Dizziness and How Chiropractors Can Help
Feeling dizzy when you roll over in bed, tilt your head, or get up too quickly? You might be experiencing Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, more commonly known as BPPV—a common yet often misunderstood cause of vertigo.
What is BPPV?
BPPV is a condition that affects the inner ear. It's called:
Benign – because it's not life-threatening.
Paroxysmal – meaning sudden and brief episodes.
Positional – because it's triggered by certain head movements.
Vertigo – the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning.
In BPPV, tiny calcium crystals (called otoconia) in your inner ear become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals—structures that help control your sense of balance. When these crystals move inappropriately, they can send confusing signals to your brain, resulting in dizziness or spinning sensations.
Common Symptoms of BPPV
Sudden vertigo triggered by head position changes
Nausea or imbalance
A feeling like the room is spinning
Episodes that last less than a minute
How is BPPV Treated?
The Epley maneuver is a widely used and effective treatment. It involves a series of specific head and body movements designed to move the dislodged crystals back to where they belong. When performed correctly—often with the guidance of a trained practitioner—this maneuver can provide fast relief and, in many cases, resolve BPPV entirely.
Not All Dizziness is BPPV
It’s important to remember that BPPV is just one of many causes of dizziness and vertigo. Other possibilities include:
Inner ear infections or inflammation
Vestibular migraines
Cervicogenic dizziness (related to the neck)
Low blood pressure
Neurological conditions
Anxiety or stress-related dizziness
Stroke or other changes to the brain
How Can a Chiropractor Help?
As chiropractors, we are trained to assess and identify the source of dizziness. If BPPV is suspected, we can perform appropriate positional tests and, if indicated, guide you through the Epley maneuver or refer you for further ENT or vestibular physiotherapy support.
If your symptoms are related to neck dysfunction (which can also mimic vertigo), chiropractic care—such as gentle mobilization, postural advice, and soft tissue therapy—may be appropriate. We can also identify red flags and refer you to other trusted healthcare providers if your symptoms suggest another underlying cause.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing ongoing dizziness or vertigo, don’t ignore it. While BPPV is often harmless and treatable, other causes can be more serious. Accurate diagnosis and early intervention make a big difference.
Other useful sites and home remedies:
This video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTnV3m4bWDg
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