A pathophysiological mechanism of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) in which dislodged otoconia (calcium carbonate crystals) from the utricle become free-floating within a semicircular canal, most commonly the posterior canal. With changes in head position, these particles shift under the influence of gravity, creating abnormal fluid movement (endolymph flow) that stimulates the canal’s sensory receptors and triggers brief episodes of vertigo and positional nystagmus. Classically, symptoms typically last less than one minute and fatigue with repeated positioning. Some cases have an atypical presentation. When properly identified by a professional and treated with maneuvers to reposition the crystals back where they belong, BPPV treatment has a high success rate. However, it also has a fairly high recurrence rate. If it recurs, it needs to be treated again.
Disclaimer
This blog is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The content and any comments by Dr. Kim Bell, DPT are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The details of any case mentioned in this post represent a typical patient that Dr. Bell might see and do not describe the circumstances of a specific individual.
