Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo is a very common condition of the inner ear that causes dizziness and a spinning sensation in affected patients. While not dangerous, it can be very uncomfortable and disconcerting to say the least. Episodes can last for a few seconds to a few minutes, and symptoms tend to come and go over time. Most symptoms are brought on by a shift of the head – getting up from bed, turning the head, rolling over during sleep or standing abruptly. BPPV can occur in anyone, but it is most often associated with individuals who have suffered a trauma to the head or ear, or who have had ear surgery.
What is the Reason Behind Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo?
We all have otolith organs in our ears that are meant to help us maintain balance and relate to our surroundings. These organs contain calcium crystals, which can become dislodged and travel into the semicircular canal. Once moved into the semicircular canal, the crystals can cause a sensation of motion, even when the patient isn’t moving, resulting in vertigo.
What are the Symptoms of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo?
- Spinning or Moving Sensation
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Instability and Loss of Balance
- Abnormal Rhythmic Eye Movements
How Can Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Be Treated?
The good news is that this condition can be treated non-invasively right in your Chiropractor’s office. Many of our patients are surprised to learn that we can help to reduce or eliminate symptoms – often in just one visit.
If you are suffering with symptoms BPPV, your chiropractor can use specific techniques to move the calcium debris out of your semicircular canal and ease symptoms of vertigo. Using manipulations such as the Epley Maneuver or the Semont Maneuver, we are able to bring relief to patients dealing with this frustrating condition.
Will Treatment Be Painful?
You will not feel any pain, but you could find that you feel some mild discomfort during the manipulation, and quite often, patients experience a bout of vertigo during treatment as the calcium crystals move around in the inner ear.
How Often Will I Have to Come for Treatment?
Many patients experience either relief or a total cure after only one treatment. Others need a few treatments to see results. If symptoms do return over time, we can repeat the procedure again.
If you have been dealing with the troublesome effects of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, there’s no need to suffer any longer. Book an appointment with one of our Chiropractors for a consultation today.
