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Vertigo is a vestibular dysfunction that presents with symptoms such as dizziness, imbalance, and disorientation. The most common form of vertigo encountered in the general population is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), often triggered by sudden head movements. This condition occurs when otolith crystals inside the inner ear become dislodged and enter the semicircular canals.
One of the most effective methods in modern medicine for vertigo treatment is the vertigo maneuver therapy. This non-invasive technique aims to reposition the inner ear particles using gravity through specific head and body movements. With high-volume search queries like “What is vertigo?”, “How is vertigo maneuver performed?”, and “Home maneuver for vertigo”, this topic remains highly relevant both clinically and academically.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a condition characterized by the false sensation that either the patient or the environment is spinning. It is commonly accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Ear fullness or ringing (tinnitus)
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
Vertigo can stem from either central (brain-related) or peripheral (inner ear-related) causes. The most common cause is peripheral vertigo, especially BPPV.
What Is Vertigo Maneuver Therapy?
Vertigo maneuver therapy involves repositioning head and body postures in a specific sequence to guide dislodged inner ear crystals (otoliths) back to their correct location within the balance system. This method is non-invasive, drug-free, and highly effective.
Commonly Used Maneuvers:
Maneuver Type | Indication | Mechanism of Action |
---|---|---|
Epley Maneuver | Posterior canal BPPV | Directs crystals toward the utricle region |
Semont Maneuver | Posterior canal BPPV | Uses rapid head movement to dislodge crystals |
Barbecue Maneuver | Horizontal canal BPPV | Rotates head 360° to reposition crystals |
Gufoni Maneuver | Horizontal canal BPPV | Tilts head sideways to mobilize crystals |
How Is a Vertigo Maneuver Performed?
These maneuvers should ideally be performed in a clinical setting by an ENT specialist or neurologist. In mild cases, home vertigo maneuvers (such as the modified Epley) may be recommended under medical supervision.
General Procedure Steps:
- The patient is laid on an exam table.
- The head is turned to specific angles to free the crystals.
- The head is then repositioned to guide the crystals into the utricle.
- The entire procedure takes about 10 minutes.
- Post-procedure, patients are advised to avoid certain head positions for a short period.
Post-Maneuver Recovery Process
- Recovery Time: Most patients experience relief within 1–2 sessions.
- Aftercare: For 24 hours, the head should be kept elevated at a 45° angle during sleep.
- Recurrence: Recurrence may occur in about 20% of patients, but success rate exceeds 90% with repeat maneuvers.
Vertigo Treatment Cost in Turkey
The cost of vertigo maneuver therapy in Turkey may vary depending on:
- The expertise of the physician
- The number of sessions required
- The medical facility and its technological infrastructure
- Whether the patient is local or traveling from abroad
- Treatment is generally planned across 1 to 3 sessions in private clinics.
Which Doctor to See for Vertigo?
Vertigo treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach. Depending on the type and cause of vertigo, the following specialists may be consulted:
- ENT Specialists (Otolaryngologists): Ideal for BPPV and inner ear-related vertigo.
- Neurologists: Evaluate and treat central or brain-related vertigo conditions.
- Physiotherapists: Assist with vestibular rehabilitation therapy.
Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS
Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.
This article September 13, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr