Effectiveness of Cranial Acupuncture for Vertigo and Dizziness—Exploring the “Epley Area” as a Novel Hypothesized Site of Intervention: A Case Series

Abstract

Background:

It is estimated that between 20% and 30% of adults experience dizziness and/or vertigo at some point in their lives. Primary causes include alterations of the peripheral balance sensory system and central nervous system, such as cerebrovascular disorders, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, hyperventilation syndrome, ear diseases (e.g., Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis), cardiovascular diseases, whiplash syndrome (with 80%–90% of patients experiencing dizziness), adverse drug effects, and aging. In clinical practice, vertigo and dizziness syndromes are commonly observed and can be highly disabling, significantly interfering with patients’ quality of life. This study presents the clinical intervention conducted on three adult patients who experienced vertigo or dizziness.

Materials and Methods:

A novel cranial acupuncture approach was applied to a newly proposed area, designated as the “Epley Area.” Bilateral needling was performed, with each session lasting 60 minutes. Symptom severity was assessed using a Visual Analogue Scal administered before and after each session.

Results:

Following four acupuncture sessions, all three patients reported complete resolution of vertigo and dizziness. One patient, who also experienced tinnitus, noted a significant decrease in its intensity.

Conclusion:

These preliminary results, based on three clinical cases, support the formulation of a hypothesis regarding the utility of this newly proposed cranial acupuncture area. Further controlled studies are needed to test this hypothesis.