Spells of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV, involve a spinning sensation that can last up to a minute, and can happen while you are sitting or standing still. Sometimes it goes away by itself, but when it doesn’t, the most common treatment is head exercises. Make sure that your physician has diagnosed BPPV and has recommended this course of treatment. If you don't see any improvement, contact your doctor.
Semont Liberatory Maneuver
Step 1
Sit in such a position on the bed so that when you lie back, your head is tilted downward a bit from the edge. Lie back suddenly and quickly.
Step 2
Wait two to three minutes, then quickly swing your head 45 degrees to your right side. Hold the position for 30 seconds.
Step 3
Swing your head fast to your left side. Wait 30 seconds, then sit up again slowly.
Step 4
Remain upright for the next 48 hours. Sleep with your back propped against pillows to keep your head vertical.
Brandt-Daroff Exercise
Step 1
Sit on the edge of your bed with your feet on the floor. Lie down on your right side and quickly turn your head to look up at the ceiling.
Step 2
Stay in this position until any dizziness passes. Then sit up again, facing forward for a period of 30 seconds.
Step 3
Lie down on your left side. Repeat the process of turning your head sharply and quickly to look up at the ceiling. When the dizziness passes, sit up again.
Step 4
Repeat this series of movements five times. For optimal results, repeat this maneuver two to three times a day for up to three weeks.
Tips and Warnings
- The Semont Maneuver works by helping to move the crystals out of the inner ear. The Brandt-Daroff exercise teaches your brain to compensate for the crystals and not react to their presence with a sense of spinning and whirling.
- Don’t attempt these exercises when you’re alone. You may fall if you stand up too quickly afterward, or they may provoke dizziness so severe that you cannot sit up again without help. Perform the exercises at a moderate pace so as not to cause neck injury.
