BPPV (Positional Vertigo)

BPPV — the most common cause of vertigo — occurs when calcium crystals in the inner ear migrate into the semicircular canals. The Epley repositioning maneuver combined with SOT cranial adjusting resolves most cases rapidly.

What Is BPPV (Positional Vertigo)?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is caused by otoconia — calcium carbonate crystals from the utricle — dislodging and entering the semicircular canals of the inner ear. When the head moves in certain directions, these crystals displace fluid in the canal, sending false movement signals to the brain and triggering intense spinning vertigo. Episodes are typically brief (less than one minute) and triggered by specific position changes such as rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending forward. The posterior semicircular canal is most commonly affected.

Common Symptoms

Brief spinning or whirling sensation triggered by head position changes
Nausea with severe episodes
Vertical and torsional nystagmus (eye movements) during vertigo
Unsteadiness and imbalance between episodes
Symptoms when rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending forward
Episodes typically lasting less than one minute

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

Otoconia dislodging from the utricle into the semicircular canals
Head trauma or concussion displacing crystals
Age-related degeneration of the otolithic membrane
Viral inner ear infection
Prolonged bedrest altering crystal position
Cranial bone distortions affecting inner ear mechanics

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for BPPV (Positional Vertigo)

The Epley canalith repositioning procedure is highly effective for BPPV and is performed in-office by Dr. Foss. The head is guided through a specific sequence of positions to move the displaced crystals out of the affected canal and back to the utricle. SOT cranial adjusting addresses concurrent cranial bone distortions — particularly temporal bone dysfunction — that can perpetuate or worsen BPPV. Most patients experience complete resolution within one to three visits. Cervical adjusting reduces associated neck tension that compounds dizziness.

At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.

We are insurance friendly with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from BPPV (Positional Vertigo)?

Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.

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