- The Dix-Hallpike Maneuver is performed to help diagnose/rule out benign positional vertigo, a condition attributed to floating (canalithiasis) or fixed (cupulolithiasis) otoconial debris within the posterior semicircular canal of the ear.
- To perform, turn the patient's head 45 degrees to one side and then rapidly but carefully recline them backwards to a supine position, preferably with the head hanging partially off the bed (i.e. at a position about 10-20 degrees inferior to that of the rest of the body). Next, perform the maneuver by turning the patient's head 45 degrees to the other side.
- If nystagmus is induced, the test is positive. Note the following five characteristics of the nystagmus: (1) latency, (2) direction, (3) fatigue (i.e. extinguishes with repetitive maneuvers), (4) habituation (i.e. duration), and (5) reversal upon sitting upright.
- Note that the Dix-Hallpike Maneuver described here is the diagnostic version, not the one performed therapeutically, the latter of which is also helpful.