Benign Proximal Positional Vertigo Testing

Benign Proximal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a condition in which calcium crystals from inside the inner ear break off and begin to float around in the semi-circular canals. The movement of the crystals causes the individual to feel a spinning sensation. The test for BPPV is called the Dix-Hallpike Maneuver. This test is completed by having the patient sit on a table and we lay the patient back quickly with their head turned to one side. We then watch the patient’s eyes for nystagmus. If nystagmus is detected the test is considered to be positive. When this test is positive we can perform a repositioning maneuver to move the crystals out of the canals, so that they can be absorbed back into the body.