Brandt Daroff exercise for BPPV

Brandt-Daroff exercises are used for the treatment of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). For more information on BPPV please see our separate leaflet on this.

The exercises can stop the dizzy spells experienced by BPPV sufferers. It is not clear why the exercises work, some evidence suggests that the exercises help to relocate the loose crystals that cause the dizziness in the first place, whereas other evidence suggests that repeated exposure to the feeling of dizziness reduces its intensity.

The exercises are likely to provoke dizziness, therefore should
be performed in a safe environment, preferably with another
person present. Some people find it difficult to persevere with
the exercises but the exercises have a good success rate.

There are alternative manoeuvres that can be used to treat BPPV, such as an Epley manoeuvre. Your specialist may perform an Epley manoeuvre with you in clinic and then recommend Brandt-Daroff exercises for you to use at home as these are easier to perform unsupervised.

1. Start sitting upright on the edge of the bed.
2. Turn your head 45 degrees to the left, or as far as is comfortable.
3. Lie down on your right side.
4. Remain in this position for 30 seconds or until any dizziness has subsided.
5. Sit up and turn head back to centre.
6. Turn your head 45 degrees to the right, or as far as is comfortable.
7. Lie down on your left side.

Ménière’s Society
Telephone: 01306 876883

Brain and Spine Foundation
Telephone: 0808 8081000