Metropolitan Physical Therapy offers treatment and management of many common vestibular disorders, such as BPPV.

BPPV (Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo)
BPPV is a mechanical problem in the inner ear. It is the most common cause of vertigo. It occurs when some of the calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) that are normally embedded in gel in the utricle become dislodged and migrate into one or more of the 3 fluid-filled semicircular canals, where they are not supposed to be. When enough of these particles accumulate in one of the canals they interfere with the normal fluid movement that these canals use to sense head motion, causing the inner ear to send false signals to the brain.

What causes BPPV?:

• Age related degeneration of the vestibular system
• Head trauma
• Surgery causing trauma to the ear
• Extensive dental work
• Prolonged inactivity
• Migraine
• Other vestibular problems

Symptoms:

• Dizziness
• A loss of balance or unsteadiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Increase with changes of head position
• Abnormal eye movements called nystagmus
• A sense that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving (vertigo)

Treatment:

• Treatment depends on the exam, and which of the three canals are not performing correctly.
• A series of body positions to use gravity to help drain the canals.
• There are people who advocate going on the internet and trying some basic positions, but this may only work for one canal. If it is the other canals, or not performed correctly, this may make your symptoms significantly worse.
• Instruction with self-care management principles
• Address cervical relation issue to BPPV