We know that BPPV is a common condition amongst those suffering from vertigo and that it can generally be effectively treated without medication. To achieve this, however, a thorough diagnosis is required. We also know that there are cases in which BPPV does not result from posterior canalolithiasis.

Ever since Barany described, in 1906, vestibular symptoms arising in certain head positions and attributed them to damage to the otolithic apparatus, many complications and misunderstandings have arisen due to the fact that positional vertigo and nystagmus are found in the majority of vestibular disorders, whether of peripheral or central origin.