Epley Manoeuvre at Home for Vertigo: Exercises
Introduction
Vertigo is a spinning or whirling sensation when you move your head.
Your doctor may have moved you in different positions to help your vertigo get better faster. This is called the Epley manoeuvre. Your doctor also may have asked you to do these exercises at home.
Do the exercises as often as your doctor recommends. If your vertigo is getting worse, your doctor may have you change the exercise or stop it.
How to do the exercises
Step 1
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- Sit on the edge of a bed or sofa.
Step 2
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- Turn your head 45 degrees in the direction your doctor told you to. This should be toward the ear that causes the most vertigo for you. In this picture, the woman is turning toward her left ear.
Step 3
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- Tilt yourself backward until you are lying on your back. Your head should still be at a 45-degree turn. Your head should be about midway between looking straight ahead and looking out to your side. Hold for 30 seconds. If you have vertigo, stay in this position until it stops.
Step 4
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- Turn your head 90 degrees toward the ear that has the least vertigo. In this picture, the woman is turning to the right because she has vertigo on her left side. The point of your chin should be raised and over your shoulder. Hold for 30 seconds.
Step 5
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- Roll onto the side with the least vertigo. You should now be looking at the floor. Hold for 30 seconds.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Current as of: September 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
