What is semont maneuvers?

The Epley and Semont maneuvers are exercises used to treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). They are done with the help of a doctor or physical therapist. A single 10- to 15-minute session usually is all that's needed.

When your head is firmly moved into different positions, the calcium crystal (canalith) debris that causes vertigo also moves. The debris will slip out of the semicircular canal into an area of the inner ear where it will no longer cause symptoms. Two maneuvers have been used successfully: the Epley maneuver and the Semont maneuver.

In some cases, your doctor or physical therapist may have you do a modified Epley procedure at home. If your doctor has shown you how and you feel confident, you can try this at home to get rid of your vertigo.

The Epley procedure is safe and works well to treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

The Semont maneuver may work to stop symptoms of BPPV. But the evidence is not as good as it is for the Epley procedure.

These maneuvers should not be done on people with back or spine injuries or problems.

Sometimes the maneuver can move the debris from one inner ear canal to another. This can cause a different kind of vertigo.

The Epley and Semont maneuvers may improve or cure benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) with only one treatment. Some people need multiple treatments.

Epley and Semont maneuvers are used to treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).