Vertigo Can Be Treated With Simple Manoeuvres

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Vertigo patients would no longer be dependent upon pungent medications, for a new guideline suggests that the condition can be treated with the help of simple manoeuvres.

The new guideline developed by the American Academy of Neurology suggests that manoeuvres are the easiest and quickest way to treat the disorder.

These simple manoeuvres include a series of head and body movements performed by a doctor or therapist while the patient sits on a bed or table.

The benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an inner ear disorder that is a common cause of dizziness. It is said to be caused by loose calcium carbonate crystals that move in the sensing tubes of the inner ear.

The disorder causes a feeling of spinning or whirling when the head is moved in certain ways, such as looking up or bending

The maneuvers move the calcium crystals out of the sensing tube and into another inner chamber of the ear, from which they can be absorbed.

The new guideline developed by the American Academy of Neurology suggests that manoeuvres are the easiest and quickest way to treat the disorder.

“The good news is that this type of vertigo is easily treated," said guideline author Dr. Terry D. Fife, of the University of Arizona College of Medicine and Barrow Neurological Institute. Fife is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology.

“Instead of telling patients to 'wait it out" or having them take drugs, we can perform a safe and quick treatment that is immediate and effective," Fife added.

The guideline favours the use of canalith repositioning procedure, also called the Epley manoeuvre insisting that it is safe and effective for people of all ages.

The Semont maneuver is possibly an effective treatment. To develop the guideline, the authors analysed all available scientific studies on the topic.

The guideline also reviewed whether patients can perform the maneuvers safely and effectively at home.

“Having patients treat themselves using home exercises seems to pose little risk, but there is not sufficient evidence that this is as effective as maneuvers done by a doctor or therapist," said Fife.

The study is published in the May 27, 2008, issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.