Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, or BPPV, is a common vestibular disorder that causes vertigo, dizziness, and other symptoms due to debris that has collected within a part of the inner ear. This debris, called otoconia, is made up of small crystals of calcium carbonate (sometimes referred to informally as "ear rocks"). With head movement, the displaced otoconia shift, sending false signals to the brain.
In this video Dr. Janet Helminski explains the anatomy of the inner ear, what happens when these "crystals" get out of place, and how BPPV is treated.
Dr. Janet Helminski, PT, PhD, is a professor and clinician specializing in neurologic physical therapy and vestibular rehabilitation. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy from Marquette University, a Master’s degree with an emphasis in orthopedics, and a PhD in Neuroscience from Northwestern University. Her research focuses on the management of atypical benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the differential diagnosis of acute vestibular syndromes, and interventions for uncompensated peripheral vestibular deficits. Dr. Helminski serves as a scientific reviewer for defense and research programs and sits on the Medical & Scientific Advisory Board of the Vestibular Disorders Association.