Department
Neurology
Document Type
Article
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Video-sharing Web sites are being used for information about common conditions including dizziness. The Epley maneuver (EM) is a simple and effective treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) of the posterior canal. However, the maneuver is underused in routine care. In this study, we aimed to describe and analyze the available information about the EM on youtube.com.
METHODS: A YouTube search was performed on August 31, 2011, for videos that demonstrated the entire EM. Detailed data were abstracted from each video and corresponding Web site. Videos were rated on the accuracy of the maneuver by 2 authors, with differences resolved by adjudication. Comments posted by viewers were assessed for themes regarding video use.
RESULTS: Of the 3,319 videos identified, 33 demonstrated the EM. The total number of hits for all videos was 2,755,607. The video with the most hits (802,471) was produced by the American Academy of Neurology. Five of the videos accounted for 85% of all the hits. The maneuver demonstration was rated as accurate in 64% (21) of the videos. Themes derived from the 424 posted comments included patients self-treating with the maneuver after reviewing the videos, and providers using the videos as a prescribed treatment or for educational purposes.
CONCLUSION: Accurate video demonstration of the Epley maneuver is available and widely viewed on YouTube. Video-sharing media may be an important way to disseminate effective interventions such as the EM. The impact of video Web sites on outcomes and costs of care is not known and warrants future study.
Medical Subject Headings
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo; Dizziness; Humans; Internet; Patient Positioning; Posture; Treatment Outcome; Vertigo; Video Recording
Publication Date
7-24-2012
Publication Title
Neurology
ISSN
1526-632X
Volume
79
Issue
4
First Page
376
Last Page
380
PubMed ID
22826542
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.1212/WNL.0b013e3182604533
Recommended Citation
Kerber, Kevin A; Burke, James F; Skolarus, Lesli E; Callaghan, Brian C; Fife, Terry D.; Baloh, Robert W; and Fendrick, A Mark, "A prescription for the Epley maneuver: www.youtube.com?" (2012). Neurology. 320.
https://scholar.barrowneuro.org/neurology/320