Balance disorders and BPPV: what NIDCD says about diagnosis and vestibular rehabilitation
NIDCD says an otolaryngologist and an audiologist usually evaluate balance problems, that for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) “your otolaryngologist or audiologist might perform” movements such as the Epley maneuver, and that “A vestibular rehabilitation therapist can help you develop an individualized treatment plan.” This page quotes NIDCD only.
Quoted from official pages checked November 12, 2026. Confirm current information on those sites. This page is not medical, legal, or billing advice and does not describe any patient’s care.
Source read on November 12, 2026: NIDCD’s Balance Disorders page (last updated March 6, 2018). It is an older page; check NIDCD for newer information.
What a balance disorder is
NIDCD states: “A balance disorder is a condition that makes you feel unsteady or dizzy. If you are standing, sitting, or lying down, you might feel as if you are moving, spinning, or floating.”
On BPPV: “A brief, intense episode of vertigo triggered by a specific change in the position of the head.” NIDCD adds: “You might feel as if you're spinning when you bend down to look under something, tilt your head to look up or over your shoulder, or roll over in bed.”
Who evaluates it
NIDCD states: “To find out if you have a balance problem, your primary doctor may suggest that you see an otolaryngologist and an audiologist.” And: “An audiologist is a clinician who specializes in the function of the hearing and vestibular systems.” Audiology careers are not covered on this site.
Treatment
NIDCD states: “If you have BPPV, your otolaryngologist or audiologist might perform a series of simple movements, such as the Epley maneuver, to help dislodge the otoconia from the semicircular canal. In many cases, one session works; other people need the procedure several times to relieve their dizziness.”
On rehabilitation: “Some people with a balance disorder may not be able to fully relieve their dizziness and will need to find ways to cope with it. A vestibular rehabilitation therapist can help you develop an individualized treatment plan.”
The NIDCD page read does not say which profession a “vestibular rehabilitation therapist” belongs to and does not use the words physical therapist; this page does not fill that in. CDC’s mention of vestibular rehabilitation after concussion is on the concussion page.
Safety
NIDCD states: “To reduce your risk of injury from dizziness, avoid walking in the dark. Wear low-heeled shoes or walking shoes outdoors. If necessary, use a cane or walker and modify conditions at your home and workplace, such as adding handrails.”
What this page does not do
It does not repeat NIDCD’s sections on Ménière’s disease medicines or surgery. It is not medical advice and does not recommend any treatment, medicine, or product. Scope of practice for each profession is set by state law; check your state board.