Understanding BPPV

Understanding BPPV: causes, symptoms, and effective treatment

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of dizziness and vertigo, yet many people don’t realise how treatable it is. At Total Physio, we regularly help patients overcome BPPV with simple, effective techniques that can restore balance and confidence quickly.

What is BPPV?

BPPV is a condition affecting the inner ear, where tiny calcium crystals (called otoconia) become dislodged and move into the wrong part of the ear’s balance system. When this happens, certain head movements can trigger sudden sensations of spinning (vertigo).

Despite how unsettling it feels, BPPV is:

• Benign - not life-threatening

• Paroxysmal - symptoms come in short bursts

• Positional - triggered by changes in head position

Common symptoms

People with BPPV often describe:

• Brief episodes of dizziness or spinning

• Symptoms triggered by rolling in bed, looking up, or bending down

• Nausea or feeling off-balance

• Unsteadiness when walking

These episodes typically last less than a minute but can recur frequently, affecting daily life.

What causes BPPV?

BPPV can occur without a clear reason, but common contributing factors include:

• Age-related changes in the inner ear

• Head injuries

• Prolonged time spent lying down (e.g., after illness or surgery)

• Inner ear conditions

How is BPPV diagnosed?

At Total Physio, our physiotherapists use specific positional tests, such as the Dix-Hallpike test, to identify BPPV. These assessments help determine which ear and canal are affected, allowing us to target treatment effectively.

Effective treatment options

The good news is that BPPV is highly treatable.

1. Repositioning manoeuvres

Specialised techniques, such as the Epley manoeuvre, are used to guide the displaced crystals back to their correct position in the inner ear. Many patients experience immediate relief after just one or two sessions.

2. Vestibular rehabilitation

If symptoms persist or balance is affected, tailored exercises can help retrain the brain and improve stability.

3. Education and advice

We provide guidance on:

• Managing symptoms at home

• Safe movement strategies

• Reducing recurrence risk

When should you seek help?

You should consider physiotherapy if:

• You experience repeated episodes of vertigo

• Dizziness is affecting your daily activities

• You feel unsteady or at risk of falling

• Symptoms are not improving on their own

Early treatment can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent ongoing issues.

How Total Physio can help?

Our experienced physiotherapists are trained in diagnosing and treating vestibular conditions like BPPV. We provide:

• Accurate assessment

• Evidence-based treatment

• Personalised rehabilitation plans

Most importantly, we aim to get you back to feeling steady, confident, and in control as quickly as possible.

Book an appointment

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo, don’t ignore it. BPPV is highly manageable with the right care.

Contact Total Physio today to schedule an assessment and start your recovery.