What is BPPV

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of vestibular dysfunction. BBPV can cause bouts of vertigo, a ‘spinning’ sensation brought on by a change in head position relative to gravity.

What causes BBPV

Calcium carbonate crystals are generally in the static balance part of the vestibular system in our inner ear. This is the part of the vestibular system where gravity is detected. The crystals, however, can become loose often for no known reason. Some reasons could be a bump to the head, a concussion, a virus or some other problems in the area. The loose crystals can then flow into the semi-circular canals, where our dynamic balance is detected. This can happen when we move our head in relation to gravity, such as rolling over in bed, getting in or out of bed or head up and down movements. The loose crystals moving around makes our eye movements unstable, and the spinning sensation occurs. It stops as soon as the crystals stop moving.

What treatment is available for BBPV?

A vestibular physiotherapist determines which canal the crystals are in and treats them accordingly. Specific manoeuvres are then used to relocate the crystals back to where they belong. The eye movements will then be tracked with our diagnostic infrared goggles.

Following treatment of BBPV, you will be given specific instructions to follow to allow the crystals the best chance of remaining where they belong. Walking around and remaining upright will assist the crystals to bed down and settle with the other crystals. It is not unusual to feel an increase in nausea, unsteadiness or lightheadedness in the 48 hours after treatment, but this should settle. More than one treatment may be required if symptoms persist or recur. A review one week after treatment is suggested to confirm that the crystals have remained in place. Our vestibular physiotherapist will assess your balance in this follow-up session.

To enquire about BPPV treatment, please call us on  02 9906 7777