If you're reading this, chances are you've tried the Epley maneuver for vertigo and found that it didn't provide the relief you were hoping for. Don't worry, you're not alone!
If you do a quick google search for "vertigo", you will find the Epley maneuver and maybe you thought,
"hey, let's give this a try..."
But you may feel disappointed when it doesn't work to relieve your symptoms. Or, maybe you tried the Epley, and now you are feeling worse and afraid of of your symptoms and what further treatment may feel like!
This is why the Epley maneuver should only be performed under the guidance and instruction under a skilled vestibular therapist or healthcare provider who has advanced training in vertigo and dizziness symptoms.
The Epley maneuver, a type of canalith repositioning procedure, is a treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
BPPV is a common condition that occurs when small calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and migrate into one of the ear's semicircular canals, where they do not belong.
This can cause feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, and a spinning sensation.
While the Epley maneuver can be effective, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution!
You are unique! And your symptoms need individualized treatment to properly diagnosis, treat, and defeat your dizziness and vertigo for good!
Here are three reasons why the Epley maneuver may not have cured your vertigo:
1. Incorrect diagnosis
Vertigo is a complex condition that can have many different causes. While the Epley maneuver is effective for certain types of vertigo, it may not work for others.
Another common cause of positional vertigo is vestibular migraine - you can actually have migraines without having headaches! This requires working with your healthcare provider who have experience with the vestibular system to determine the right medical diagnosis.
If your vertigo is caused by something other than posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the Epley maneuver will not be the right treatment for you.
It's important to work with a qualified healthcare provider who understands the complexities of vertigo to accurately diagnose the cause of your vertigo before attempting any treatment.
2. Improper technique:
Even if you have BPPV and the Epley maneuver is the right treatment for you, possible that the maneuver was not performed correctly.
The Epley maneuver involves a series of specific head movements that must be performed in a certain order and angles to be effective. If the maneuver is not done correctly, it may not move the displaced crystals in your inner ear back to where they belong and will complicate your diagnosis and has the potential to make you feel worse.
Working with a healthcare provider who is experienced in performing the Epley maneuver can help ensure that it's done correctly so you can feel better, FAST!
3. Underlying conditions:
It's important to note that vertigo is not a diagnosis- it's a symptom!
That would be like you going to the doctor for shoulder pain, and they told you your diagnosis is "pain". So it's vital to have the root cause of your vertigo investigated and treated.
If the Epley maneuver didn't cure your vertigo, it's possible that there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.
Some conditions that can cause vertigo include Meniere's disease, migraines, and vestibular neuritis.
The Epley maneuver is a valuable treatment for many people and it may be the right technique for your vertigo, but it's not a cure-all.
The Epley maneuver should only be performed under the instruction of a healthcare provider who has advanced training in conditions of the inner ear and symptoms of vertigo.
If you've tried the Epley maneuver and it didn't provide the relief you were hoping for, don't give up and continue to be an advocate for yourself!
Work with your expert provider to accurately diagnose the cause of your vertigo and develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your specific needs. With patience and persistence, you can find relief from your vertigo symptoms.