Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo, resulting
from migration of otoconia into the semicircular canals. Several treatment methods
involving positioning maneuvers that return the otoconia to the utricle have been
described. Following treatment, most patients are provided with a variety of activity
restrictions. Previous studies suggest that, overall, BPPV treatment may be successful
without these restrictions. The purpose of this study was to determine the necessity
of postmaneuver restrictions using an experimental and control group with participants
matched for age, gender, involved ear, and symptoms. A canalith repositioning maneuver
was used to treat the BPPV. During postmaneuver instruction, the 21 participants assigned
to the restricted group were provided with typical activity restrictions. Twenty-one
participants assigned to the nonrestricted group were given no postmaneuver restrictions.
Only one participant in the restricted group and two participants in the nonrestricted
group were not clear at the one-week follow-up appointment. Results indicated that
postmaneuver restrictions do not improve treatment efficacy.
Key Words
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo - canalith repositioning maneuver - otoconia
