Crystal sickness
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a disorder of the inner ear that can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. This condition results in periodic and sudden episodes of dizziness and balance problems that can be very distressing. BPPV is a relatively common condition and can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults.
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a condition that is usually not dangerous, but it can be challenging to manage the repeated episodes of dizziness. People experiencing symptoms of ben- efit from ben- efit should seek medical advice and treatment to establish a diagnosis and discuss appropriate treatment options. A chiropractor or naturopath can assist with treatment.
What happens in the body with crystalluria?
Some of the hair cells in the inner ear have a gelatinous mass on their surface. The mass contains small calcium crystals. When you move your head, the crystals move and affect the hair cells. Since the calcium crystals are heavier than the mass, they move with a certain inertia. The hair cells register gravity and thereby receive information about the position of the head. When crystals become loose and end up in the wrong place in the mass, they affect the wave movements and thus the signals to the brain. This makes you feel dizzy.
Cause & common symptoms of crystal disease
Common causes of crystal disease
Age-related changes
Crystal disease is more common in people over 50 years of age as the structures in the inner ear can become more sensitive.
Head trauma or blows to the head
Accidents or blows can cause crystals to become dislodged from their place.
After infections or inflammations
Certain viral infections or inflammations of the inner ear can trigger the condition.
After bed rest or periods of immobility
Prolonged bed rest, for example after surgery, can sometimes lead to crystal disease.
Often without a clear cause
In many cases, no direct cause can be identified.
Common symptoms of crystal disease
Short-term, spinning dizziness (carousel vertigo)
The dizziness usually lasts a few seconds to a minute and is triggered by specific movements of the head, such as lying down, turning in bed or looking up.
Nausea
Dizziness can sometimes lead to nausea, especially if the attacks come close together.
Feeling of imbalance between attacks
Even when the dizziness has subsided, a slight feeling of unsteadiness may remain.
Anxiety or uncertainty when moving
Many people become afraid of moving their heads and avoid certain movements in everyday life.
How is treatment for crystal disease carried out?
Crystal disease is effectively treated with special positional maneuvers, where the position of the head is changed in a specific pattern to help the crystals return to their correct place in the inner ear. The most common technique is the Epley maneuver, which can be performed by a trained therapist.
At our clinic, we always start with a thorough examination to ensure the correct diagnosis. After that, the treatment may look like this:
Positional maneuvers (e.g. Epley or Semont)
Performed with precision and guidance, often with immediate symptom relief.
Balance and stabilization exercises
To reduce residual instability and restore safe movement.
Counseling and home exercises
You will receive instructions on how to manage the symptoms at home and what to avoid during the healing process.
The vast majority of people recover completely after one to a few treatments. If symptoms return, the treatment can be repeated with good effect.
