Vertigo: Epley Maneuver Procedure

Author: Ian C. Langtree - View Credentials
Published: 7 Jul 2009 - Updated: 31 May 2022

Table of Contents:
Synopsis - Overview - Related Content

Synopsis

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

Overview

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

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 C. Langtree is a writer, editor, and the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, which he established in 2004 as one of the longest-running independent resources for disability news and information. Over more than two decades, he has written and edited thousands of articles on disability rights, health, accessibility, and assistive technology. Drawing on a global perspective shaped by extensive travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed advocate of the Social Model of Disability, the framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that focuses on removing societal barriers rather than on individual impairments. His writing is grounded in that framework and in a lasting commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.