Understanding BPPV: A Guide to Physiotherapy Support
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of dizziness, affecting people across different age groups but especially prevalent in older adults. While it may sound intimidating, BPPV is manageable and treatable, often with the help of a trained physiotherapist.
What is BPPV?
BPPV occurs when tiny crystals (called otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and move into semicircular canals – structures within the ear that help you keep your balance. These crystals disrupt the normal flow of fluid that helps your brain interpret motion. As a result, people with BPPV experience vertigo, a spinning sensation often triggered by specific head movements such as:
- Rolling over in bed
- Looking up or down
- Bending forward
The symptoms can be distressing but are generally short-lived, lasting only seconds to a minute after the triggering movement.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapists play a crucial role in managing BPPV. They employ specialized techniques to diagnose and treat the condition effectively, improving balance and reducing dizziness.
1. Diagnosis
Physiotherapists can identify BPPV using maneuvers like the Dix-Hallpike Test and the Roll Test, which help locate the affected semicircular canal by observing eye movements and patient-reported symptoms.
2. Treatment Techniques
Once BPPV is diagnosed, physiotherapists use canalith repositioning maneuvers to guide the dislodged crystals back to their correct position. These maneuvers include:
- Epley Maneuver: A series of guided head movements to relocate crystals from the posterior canal.
- Semont Maneuver: Similar to Epley but requires quicker head movements.
- BBQ Roll: Used specifically for horizontal canal BPPV.
These techniques are safe, effective, and often relieve symptoms after one to three sessions of treatment.
3. Education and Prevention
In addition to treatment, physiotherapists educate patients on managing symptoms, avoiding triggering movements, and practicing postural habits that support recovery.
4. Vestibular Rehabilitation
For patients with lingering dizziness or balance challenges, vestibular rehabilitation exercises can help recalibrate and improve balance. These exercises might include:
- Gaze stabilization activities
- Balance and coordination training
- Gradual exposure to head and body movements to reduce sensitivity
When to Seek Help
If you or someone you know experiences recurrent dizziness or vertigo, consulting a physiotherapist can make a significant difference. Timely intervention not only alleviates discomfort but also reduces the risk of falls and improves overall quality of life. BPPV may be a disruptive condition, but with the right support and treatment plan, it is highly manageable. Book with a physiotherapist at Connect Physiotherapy & Exercise provide both the expertise and reassurance needed to help you regain balance and confidence in your daily life.
