Semont-plus Maneuver May Offer Better Vertigo Relief
The technique could provide a more accessible alternative to the Epley maneuver for older adults managing vertigo.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Stroke
Live Poll
Would you try a new physical therapy maneuver if standard treatments failed to resolve your vertigo?
UF Health neurologists are highlighting the Semont-plus maneuver as a potentially faster treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). New research suggests this technique could offer an alternative to the traditional Epley maneuver for patients in Gainesville.
Why it matters
BPPV affects up to 50% of older adults, making effective vertigo management essential for daily mobility and quality of life. The Semont-plus maneuver may offer a more accessible option for those struggling with the standard physical therapy techniques.
Clinical trial results indicate a 90% initial-visit success rate for the Semont-plus maneuver in resolving BPPV symptoms. The extent to which this maneuver outperforms the Epley maneuver across diverse patient populations is still being determined.
The players
UF Health
An academic health center in Gainesville that provides specialized neurological and physical therapy care.
The details
The Semont-plus maneuver uses specific head extensions and body movements to reposition canaliths, the tiny crystals in the inner ear that cause vertigo when displaced. This approach may be physically easier for patients who experience discomfort with the Epley maneuver due to cervical spine or shoulder issues. Patients may be able to learn these movements for at-home use after initial clinical instruction.
Timeline
The Epley maneuver has served as a standard treatment for BPPV for the past 45 years.
Health Landscape
For 45 years, the Epley maneuver has been the standard physical therapy approach for posterior canal BPPV. The introduction of Semont-plus marks a potential shift toward more tailored maneuvers that accommodate physical limitations.
If you experience recurring dizziness or vertigo, discuss whether the Semont-plus maneuver is appropriate for your specific needs with your doctor or physical therapist. Because the movement relies on neck and shoulder positioning, your clinician can help determine if it is safe for your anatomy.
The takeaway
The Semont-plus maneuver offers a new, highly effective option for resolving vertigo in older adults. If you have a history of cervical or shoulder pain, ask your physician if this repositioning technique might be more comfortable and effective for you than standard methods.
Further reading
Learn more about managing vestibular health in our Stroke section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Alachua Chronicle.
Live Poll
Would you try a new physical therapy maneuver if standard treatments failed to resolve your vertigo?
