Overview

The canalith repositioning procedure can help relieve benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a condition in which you have brief, but intense, episodes of dizziness and vertigo that occur when you move your head. Vertigo usually comes from a problem with the part of the inner ear responsible for balance. BPPV occurs when tiny canalith particles (otoconia) in one part of your inner ear break loose and fall into the semicircular canals of your inner ear.

The canalith repositioning procedure can move these particles to a part of your ear where they won't cause dizziness. The procedure involves several simple head maneuvers. It can be done in your doctor's office. The procedure is usually effective and relieves vertigo in about 80% of people after one or two treatments. But the problem may recur.