Vertigo: Epley Maneuver Procedure

Author: Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 7 Jul 2009 - Updated: 31 May 2022

Contents: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Related Publications

Synopsis: The Epley maneuver for vertigo is also called the particle repositioning, canalith repositioning procedure, or modified liberatory maneuver.

The Epley Exercise maneuver should be done by your doctor or physical therapist for safety, but can also be performed at home.

Introduction

This technique is used to manage BPPV, which involves sequential movement of the head into 4 positions.

Main Content

Dizziness and Positional Vertigo are treatable with the non-invasive, non-drug procedure developed by Dr. John Epley and Dr. Dominic Hughes.

The Epley maneuver is also called the particle repositioning, canalith repositioning procedure, and modified liberatory maneuver and involves sequential movement of the head into four positions, staying in each position for roughly 30 seconds.

This treatment employs gravity to move the calcium build-up that causes the condition.

The Epley Exercise maneuver should be done by your doctor or physical therapist for safety, but can be performed at home.

Various treatment devices are available for performing the Epley Exercise maneuver at home.

The Epley maneuver procedure is as follows:

• Sit upright
• Turn your head to the symptomatic side at a 45-degree angle, and lie on your back
• Remain up to 5 minutes in this position
• Turn your head 90 degree to the other side
• Remain up to 5 minutes in this position
• Roll your body onto your side in the direction you are facing, now you are pointing your head nose down
• Remain up to 5 minutes in this position
• Go back to the sitting position and remain up to 30 seconds in this position.

The entire procedure should be repeated 2 more times, for a total of 3 repetitions.

During each step of this procedure, you may experience some dizziness.

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.