Epley Maneuver at Home for Vertigo: Exercises

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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 maneuver. 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

Woman sitting on the edge of a bed
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  1. Sit on the edge of a bed or sofa.

Step 2

Woman turning head 45 degrees to the side
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  1. 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

Woman lying on back with head turned 45 degrees
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  1. 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

Woman turning head 90 degrees while lying down
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  1. 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

Woman lying on the side with face turned toward the bed
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  1. 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 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.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.