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.
