Does the Epley manoeuvre help with dizziness?

The manoeuvre uses a sequence of head and body positions to move tiny calcium crystals within the inner ear. When those crystals are in the wrong canal, turning in bed, looking up or bending can trigger brief spinning. Repositioning them can reduce those episodes when the pattern fits benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Dizziness can also come from migraine, infection, medication effects, blood-pressure changes, dehydration, vision problems or neurological conditions. The Epley manoeuvre is therefore not a general treatment for every unsteady or light-headed feeling. A clinician may first check which ear and canal are involved and whether the movement pattern matches.

Ask a trained clinician to show you the correct sequence, particularly if this is your first episode. The movements can briefly intensify spinning or nausea, so perform them somewhere safe with another adult nearby. Mention neck or back problems, vascular disease, retinal problems or limited mobility before attempting it. Follow the aftercare instructions you are given and arrange review if symptoms persist.

Seek emergency help for dizziness with facial drooping, one-sided weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, severe new headache, fainting, chest pain, inability to walk, or sudden hearing loss. Get medical advice when vomiting prevents fluids, symptoms are continuous, or the manoeuvre causes significant neck pain.

Ask whether your symptoms fit positional vertigo, which side should be treated, whether the manoeuvre is suitable for your neck and back, and when another assessment is needed.