What Is BPPV? (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)

 

BPPV is one of the most common causes of dizziness and vertigo. It happens when tiny calcium crystals inside the inner ear move into the wrong position. These crystals affect how your brain senses head movement and balance.

When this happens, you may feel:

• Spinning or swaying sensations
• Dizziness when turning in bed
• Lightheadedness when looking up or down
• Unsteadiness while walking
• Nausea with head movements

These symptoms often appear suddenly and can make daily activities feel unsafe.

 

How BPPV Affects Balance and Movement

When dizziness starts, many people change how they move without realizing it. They may:

• Avoid turning their head
• Move very slowly
• Hold onto walls or furniture
• Stop certain activities

Over time, these habits reduce balance confidence and increase nervous system sensitivity. Even after the crystals settle, movement fear can continue if not addressed properly.

This is why proper rehabilitation is important.

 

How Physiotherapy Helps With BPPV

Physiotherapists trained in vestibular care use specific repositioning techniques to guide the crystals back to their correct place. These movements are gentle, controlled, and evidence-based.

Treatment may include:

• Specialized head positioning maneuvers
• Balance retraining exercises
• Eye–head coordination training
• Movement confidence building
• Education for long-term prevention

This approach helps restore normal balance and reduce repeat episodes.

 

Why Professional Assessment Matters

Not all dizziness is the same. A physiotherapy assessment helps identify:

• Which ear is involved
• Which movements trigger symptoms
• How balance has been affected
• What exercises are needed

This ensures treatment is targeted and effective.

 

When to Seek Help for BPPV

You may benefit from physiotherapy if you:

• Feel dizzy when changing positions
• Have trouble getting out of bed
• Avoid movement due to fear of spinning
• Feel unsteady while walking
• Have recurring vertigo episodes

Early treatment often leads to faster recovery - https://divinecarephysio.com/bppv-treatment-in-langley/