Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV, is a common condition that tends to manifest itself in the form of a sensation of movement that can last anywhere from a few seconds to a full minute, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The onset of BPPV usually occurs following sudden head movements like looking up quickly, and can last for up to a minute after any motion stops. BPPV is a serious condition that should be checked out by a doctor before any exercise treatment is undertaken.
Habituating Exercises
Exercises to get you used to moving your head without the onset of vertigo are typically referred to as habituating exercises. These movements are designed to help you become accustomed to your head and body being in movement. These exercises are performed by going from a sitting to a lying position and repeating this five times. From the lying position turn to your left side and repeat five times. Turn from your left side to your right side and repeat five times. Other habituating exercises include moving from a standing to a sitting position, Standing and turning to the left and right and going from a sitting to lying position. Each of these positions should be maintained until any dizziness associated with the movement subsides, according to Georgia otolaryngologist Dr. Kandallu Ramesh.
Brandt-Daroff Exercises
Like the habituating exercises, Brandt-Daroff exercises are based on multiple movements. Begin by sitting on the edge of a bed. Lie down quickly on your right side with your head turned to the right at about a 45-degree angle to the left. Wait for 30 seconds or until any dizziness subsides and then sit back up and look straight ahead. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then lie down quickly on your left side with your head turned at a 45-degree angle to your right. Hold this position for 30 seconds or until any dizziness subsides and then return to the sitting position. This is one repetition of the exercise, according to doctors at the University of Maryland Medical Center. These exercises should be repeated two to three times daily as directed by your doctor.
Epley Maneuver
The Epley maneuver is similar to the Brandt-Daroff exercises in that it is a movement-based treatment for BPPV. Begin by sitting upright on a chair or table. Lie down quickly and have your doctor position your head toward the side where most dizziness occurs at a 45-degree angle. Doctors at Northwestern University recommend that you hold this position as directed for about a minute after the dizziness goes away. Keep your body still while your doctor or therapist turns your head to the other side. Wait about a minute after any dizziness goes away. Roll over onto your side while keeping your head turned in the same direction and hold this for about 30 seconds after the dizziness subsides. Return to the seated position and wait for any dizziness to subside. Repeat two more times as prescribed by your doctor.
