What to expect from the Epley manoeuvre for BPPV

A clinician positions your head, helps you lie back, turns your head to each side, and may guide you onto your side before helping you sit up. Each position is held while symptoms settle. Brief spinning, nausea, or eye movements can occur because the manoeuvre deliberately changes the position of the inner ear.

The technique is intended for a particular form of BPPV, so the affected side and diagnosis should be checked first. Neck, back, or blood-vessel problems may change whether it is suitable.

Stand slowly and have support nearby if you feel unsteady. Arrange a safe way home if dizziness remains, and avoid driving until you can turn your head and walk safely. Follow the clinician’s advice about repeating the manoeuvre or doing a home version; do not force a movement that causes severe pain.

Keep a note of which movements trigger spinning and whether hearing symptoms occur. Persistent or returning symptoms may need another assessment because more than one inner-ear problem can cause dizziness.

Seek emergency care for dizziness with new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe headache, fainting, chest pain, inability to walk, or new double vision. These features are not typical positional symptoms and need prompt assessment.

Ask which ear is affected, whether your neck and back make the manoeuvre appropriate, what to do if spinning returns, and which symptoms mean you should seek emergency help.