Description:
The Epley maneuver is a widely used canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) for treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), particularly for posterior canal BPPV. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery recommends this maneuver due to its high efficacy in repositioning dislodged otoconia from the semicircular canals back to the utricle, thereby alleviating vertigo symptoms.
The Epley maneuver involves the following steps:
1. Starting Position: The patient sits upright with their legs extended and head turned 45 degrees towards the affected ear.
2. First Position: The patient is quickly laid back with their head hanging off the edge of the examination table, still turned 45 degrees. This position is held for about 30 seconds or until vertigo and nystagmus subside.
3. Second Position: The patient's head is then turned 90 degrees to the opposite side, so it is now 45 degrees towards the unaffected ear. This position is held for another 30 seconds.
4. Third Position: The patient’s head and body are turned another 90 degrees in the same direction, so they are now lying on their side with their nose pointing towards the floor. This position is held for 30 seconds.
5. Final Position: The patient is slowly brought back to a sitting position while maintaining the head turn. The head is then returned to a neutral position.
The maneuver is typically repeated 2-3 times in a single session, and patients are often advised to avoid lying flat or making rapid head movements for 24 hours post-treatment to prevent recurrence of symptoms.
Treatment For:
AI generated Summary: The Epley maneuver is considered a highly effective, first-line treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). By repositioning dislodged inner ear crystals, it provides significant relief from dizziness and vertigo for most patients after just one or two treatments.
