These three maneuvers are used for BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo). In BPPV, tiny crystals in the inner ear drift into one of the balance canals, and certain head positions then set off short, strong spins. A repositioning maneuver takes your head through a series of positions to move the crystals back out of the canal.
VertigoMe guides you through each one with voice, vibration and live angle readings. You choose which ear you are treating before you start.
These guides are educational and cannot diagnose you. Only a clinician can tell you whether you have BPPV, which canal is affected and which ear. Use the ear your clinician identified.
Epley maneuver
Repositioning for BPPV, about 5 minutes.
You start sitting on the bed with a pillow placed where your shoulders will land, so your head tips back when you lie down. The coach takes you through turning your head, lying back, turning your head the other way, rolling onto your side and sitting up again. You hold each position for a set time.
The checklist asks you to hold the phone in front of your face like a mirror, with the hand opposite the treated ear, and to keep it with your face the whole time.
Semont maneuver
Repositioning for BPPV, the fast swing, best with help, about 3 minutes.
You sit on the edge of the bed with space to lie down on both sides. After turning your head, you lie down quickly on one side, then swing briskly up and over onto the other side in one move. The speed of the swing matters, so the app suggests having someone nearby. If you are on your own, the Epley may be the easier choice.
Skip this one if you have neck, back or hip problems, and ask your clinician.
BBQ roll maneuver
Repositioning for horizontal-canal BPPV, about 4 minutes.
This is for the less common horizontal-canal type, where lying flat and rolling in bed sets off the spin. You lie on your back and roll in quarter turns away from the treated ear, holding each position, then sit up. You need a bed wide enough to roll a full circle without falling off.
Using them during a spin
These three are the only exercises offered inside a spin log, because they are done to counter a spin:
- On the spin timer that opens when you tap Spin on the Home Quick log, tap Do a guided exercise.
- On the Timing step of a spin log, tap Exercises.
The session is then attached to that spin. If you are still spinning when a round ends, tap Still spinning — go again. VertigoMe allows up to three rounds in one sitting.
After a maneuver
The coach suggests moving gently for the rest of the day. Many people need more than one round over a few days. If spins keep coming back, or you are not improving, see your ENT, neurologist or vestibular physiotherapist.
Safety
- Have someone nearby the first time. Dizziness during the positions is expected.
- Skip these and talk to a clinician first if you have neck or back problems.
- Tap STOP at any time. Stay where you are and sit up slowly once the spinning settles.
- Seek medical help straight away for a new severe headache, trouble speaking, numbness or weakness.
