Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) usually causes intense, brief episodes of dizziness or vertigo associated with moving the head, often when rolling in bed or getting up in the morning. Some people may also feel nauseous between episodes of vertigo.

HISTORY:

A 38 yo man (AT) had a history of brief episodes of vertigo when looking up or rolling over in bed at night. He had been in a car accident two months prior and had sustained a ‘whiplash-type’ injury. He also had ongoing neck pain and headaches since the accident.

EXAMINATION:

AT had a positive left Hallpike test and positive right Roll test suggestive of bilateral benign, paroxysmal, positional vertigo (BPPV).

TREATMENT:

AT was treated with Canalith Repositioning Manoeuvres over three separate sessions. He also had manual therapy (joint mobilisation, massage, gentle active exercise and postural re-training) at these appointments and for two further sessions.

OUTCOME:

ATs vertigo eased after his initial appointment and had completely resolved after his third session. His neck pain and headaches reduced in frequency and intensity and he was able to actively self-manage his residual symptoms. He was booked for a review appointment in six weeks to ensure that his pain and headaches were still under control.