BPPV & Vertigo Physical Therapy in Ahwatukee & Phoenix, AZ
Expert One-on-One Vestibular Physical Therapy to Reduce Dizziness and Restore Your Confidence
If you're experiencing brief episodes of spinning or dizziness when rolling over in bed, looking up, bending down, or changing positions, you may be dealing with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, we provide personalized, one-on-one vestibular physical therapy to identify the cause of your dizziness, reduce your symptoms, and help you return to daily activities with confidence.
Every visit is completed one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, ensuring your evaluation and treatment are individualized to your symptoms and goals.
Ready to get started? Schedule your evaluation today.
What Is BPPV?
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of vertigo. It occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear become displaced and move into one of the semicircular canals responsible for detecting head movement.
When you move your head into certain positions, these displaced crystals can send incorrect signals to your brain, creating a sudden sensation that you or the room is spinning.
BPPV can often be identified through specific positional tests and treated using repositioning maneuvers designed to move the crystals back to an area where they no longer cause symptoms.
Common Symptoms
You may have BPPV if you experience:
✔ A spinning sensation or vertigo
✔ Dizziness when rolling over in bed
✔ Dizziness when getting in or out of bed
✔ Dizziness when looking up
✔ Dizziness when bending forward
✔ Brief episodes triggered by head movement
✔ Nausea associated with dizziness
✔ Unsteadiness or reduced confidence with movement
Common Causes
BPPV may develop:
Without an identifiable cause
After a head injury or concussion
Following prolonged bed rest
After certain inner ear conditions
Following surgery or illness
More commonly with increasing age
After a previous episode of BPPV
Because dizziness can have many different causes, a thorough evaluation is important to determine whether your symptoms are actually coming from BPPV.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Your treatment at Movewell is based on the specific cause and presentation of your dizziness. Treatment may include:
Positional Testing to determine whether BPPV is causing your symptoms.
Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers such as the Epley maneuver when appropriate.
Vestibular Assessment to evaluate balance, eye movements, and other potential contributors to dizziness.
Balance Training to improve stability and confidence.
Gaze Stabilization Exercises when appropriate for other vestibular impairments.
Movement & Activity Progressions to help you safely return to normal activities.
Education to help you understand your symptoms and what to do if they return.
For BPPV specifically, treatment often focuses on repositioning the displaced crystals rather than simply trying to strengthen or stretch your way out of dizziness.
Why Choose Movewell?
At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, you'll receive:
100% one-on-one treatment with a Doctor of Physical Therapy
Personalized vestibular evaluation and treatment
Evidence-based BPPV testing and treatment
Canalith repositioning maneuvers when appropriate
Balance and vestibular rehabilitation
Clear education throughout your recovery
A welcoming environment focused on helping you move with confidence
Our mission is simple:
Help you move well, reduce dizziness, and confidently return to your daily activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physical therapy treat BPPV?
Yes. BPPV often responds very well to specific canalith repositioning maneuvers. Your physical therapist first determines which ear and semicircular canal are involved so the appropriate treatment can be performed.
What is the Epley maneuver?
The Epley maneuver is a series of specific head and body positions used to treat certain types of BPPV. The goal is to guide displaced inner-ear crystals out of the affected semicircular canal.
How quickly can BPPV improve?
Some people experience significant improvement after one treatment session, while others may require additional treatments depending on the canal involved, recurrence, and individual presentation.
Is all dizziness caused by BPPV?
No. Dizziness can have many causes, including other vestibular disorders and medical conditions. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether BPPV is responsible for your symptoms and whether physical therapy is appropriate.
Ready to Stop the Spinning?
Vertigo and dizziness can make everyday movements feel unpredictable and uncomfortable. At Movewell Physical Therapy & Performance, we'll evaluate your symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan to help reduce dizziness, improve balance, and get you moving confidently again.