Within the inner ear we have a complex system of motion sensors. In BPPV the calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) have broken free from the hair cell sensors and begin to float freely in the semicircular canals with certain head movements. Which head movements provoke dizziness is different for different people and is dependent upon which ear is affected and which of the 3 semicircular canals is involved.

The floating crystals cause the abnormal sensory information being sent to the brain which results in an episode of vertigo while in a provoking position. Some people also experience nausea and a sense of imbalance when walking, getting up out of a chair or up out of bed with the episodes of vertigo or spinning dizziness.

What is the Role of Physical Therapy in the Treatment of BPPV?
Physical Therapy treatment for BPPV will include repositioning movements performed by the Physical Therapist to remove the free floating crystal particles within the semicircular canals of the inner ear. Exercise to help prevent reoccurrence will also be taught. Benefits of treatment for this problem are the rapid relief of symptoms. Most patients diagnosed with BPPV are symptom free in 1 – 2 Physical Therapy visits.

Treatment for BPPV/Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation focuses on improving symptoms related to imbalance and dizziness.

Vertigo is a sense of body movement even though the patient is not moving. One of the most common causes of vertigo is Benign Positional Vertigo (BPV). Other causes of dizziness can include central nervous system disorders, cervical disorders, and inner ear disorders. Balance dysfunction can be caused by multiple factors including central nervous system disorders, deconditioning, weakness and peripheral neuropathy. Physical Therapy treatment of balance disorders focuses on improving mobility, walking, balance reactions , strength and postural alignment.

Please see Vestibular Disorders Association - http://www.vestibular.org - for further info.