The Wellness Column
by Martin Sanford, DC

3/19/2011

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

     BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo dizziness. Drugs have no place in its treatment. It is commonly brought on by very specific movements of the head, most usually turning to one side, extension of the neck, or laterally tilting of the head towards the shoulder.
     For example, backing a car, turning in bed or looking up in the sky can bring on this nasty sensation.
     An immediate sense of dizziness, apprehension and disequilibrium begins, usually lasting less than a minute. Anyone observing the eyes may notice a rhythmical darting movement called nystagmus.
The condition may trouble the patient for years, but usually responds to a simple treatment that can be learned, and repeated at home. This treatment is called the Epley maneuver.
     The treatment of vertigo dizziness is simple, but must be done in a precise manner, determined by which canal is filled with debris. Thus it can only be done after careful testing. Having said that 92% of the time, the posterior semi-circular canal is the villain of the peace.
You will feel uncomfortable, and occasionally awful after the procedure. However, it is almost always successful often immediately.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call my office at 530-832-4442.