Does the Epley manoeuvre treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo?

BPPV causes brief spinning when the head changes position because tiny calcium crystals move into a balance canal where they do not belong. The manoeuvre uses a sequence of head and body positions to guide those crystals back to a quieter part of the inner ear. It is intended for positional vertigo, rather than every cause of dizziness. Symptoms may settle after one manoeuvre, but some people need reassessment or another session. Nausea or a short burst of vertigo during the movements can occur.

A clinician should establish which ear and canal are involved before teaching you the appropriate sequence. Follow the instructions slowly, use a bed or examination couch, and have someone nearby if you feel unsteady. Avoid driving or climbing until your balance has returned. If symptoms continue, arrange a review because the diagnosis may need checking or a different repositioning technique may be suitable. Read more about [Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo](/conditions/benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo/) and the [Epley Manoeuvre](/treatments/minor-procedures/epley-manoeuvre/).

Seek urgent medical help for dizziness with weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, fainting, a severe new headache, chest pain, or difficulty walking. Get prompt assessment for new hearing loss, persistent vomiting, or vertigo that does not depend on head position. These features can point to a problem needing assessment beyond BPPV.

Ask which ear is affected, whether the positional test supports BPPV, whether the manoeuvre is safe with your neck or back problems, and what symptoms should prompt an urgent review. You can also ask when to repeat the manoeuvre and how to manage lingering imbalance.