What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo. It occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) become dislodged from their normal position within the inner ear and move into one of the balance canals (semicircular canals). When you move your head into certain positions, these crystals stimulate the balance sensors incorrectly, causing brief episodes of spinning dizziness (vertigo).
People with BPPV typically experience vertigo when:
- Rolling over in bed
- Getting in or out of bed
- Looking up
- Bending down
- Tilting the head backwards
Although the spinning sensation can be intense, episodes usually last less than one minute and settle once the head remains still. BPPV does not usually cause hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
The good news is that BPPV is highly treatable, and many people experience complete resolution after just one or two treatment sessions.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Specialist vestibular physiotherapists can accurately diagnose BPPV and identify which part of the inner ear is affected. Treatment involves specific repositioning manoeuvres that guide the displaced crystals back to their correct location.
At Greenacre Physio, treatment may include:
- Comprehensive vestibular assessment
- Positional testing (such as the Dix-Hallpike test)
- Canalith repositioning manoeuvres (including the Epley manoeuvre)
- Treatment for horizontal canal BPPV where appropriate
- Balance assessment
- Advice following treatment
- Vestibular rehabilitation if symptoms persist
- Falls prevention advice
- Follow-up assessment if required
Most people notice a significant improvement immediately or within a few days following treatment.
Why Choose Greenacre Physio?
Vestibular rehabilitation is one of Greenacre Physio's specialist areas. Our clinicians have extensive experience diagnosing and treating BPPV through specialist NHS vestibular and neurological services, as well as private practice.
Accurate diagnosis is essential because dizziness can have many different causes. We perform a thorough assessment to confirm whether BPPV is responsible for your symptoms before carrying out the most appropriate repositioning manoeuvre.
Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations where appropriate.
What to Expect
Your first appointment will begin with a detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history. We will then assess your eye movements, balance and walking before performing positional tests that help identify whether BPPV is present and which balance canal is affected.
If BPPV is diagnosed, treatment is usually carried out during the same appointment using a repositioning manoeuvre. We will then provide advice about what to expect over the following few days and arrange further treatment if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can BPPV be cured?
Yes. BPPV is one of the most treatable causes of dizziness. Many people recover completely after one or two repositioning treatments, although some may require additional sessions.
Can BPPV come back?
Yes. Around one in three people experience another episode within a few years. If symptoms return, they can usually be treated successfully again with repositioning manoeuvres.
Should I avoid moving my head after treatment?
Current evidence suggests that normal gentle movement after treatment is safe for most people. We will provide individual advice based on your assessment and the manoeuvre performed.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also accept referrals from GPs, ENT consultants, neurologists and other healthcare professionals.
Book an Appointment
If you experience brief episodes of spinning dizziness when moving your head or changing position, you may have BPPV. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics for a specialist vestibular assessment and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can often resolve symptoms quickly and help you get back to everyday life.
Common Symptoms We Treat
- Spinning sensation when rolling over in bed
- Vertigo when looking up
- Dizziness when bending down
- Brief episodes of vertigo
- Nausea associated with head movements
- Balance problems
- Fear of moving the head
- Reduced confidence walking
- Falls related to dizziness
- Recurrent episodes of positional vertigo
Why Choose Greenacre Physio for BPPV?
BPPV is one of the few causes of dizziness that can often be resolved very quickly with the correct treatment. At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have specialist experience diagnosing and treating all types of BPPV using evidence-based assessment techniques and repositioning manoeuvres.
Rather than simply managing your symptoms, our aim is to identify the affected balance canal and provide the most appropriate treatment, often during your first appointment. If symptoms persist after treatment, we can also provide vestibular rehabilitation to help restore your balance and confidence, ensuring you return to your normal activities as soon as possible.