In 2017, a study conducted by researchers Jinrang Li, Shiyu Tian, and Shizhen Zou has found that the Li maneuver, a novel repositioning technique, is equally effective as the well-established Epley maneuver in treating posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (PC-BPPV). PC-BPPV is a common inner ear disorder that causes dizziness and imbalance due to dislodged calcium particles in the inner ear canals.

The study, which took place between May 2014 and July 2015, involved 120 patients who were randomly assigned to receive treatment with either the Li or Epley maneuvers. After follow-up evaluations at both 3 days and 1 week, 113 patients (72 females, 41 males, average age 52) met the study’s inclusion criteria. Both groups showed similar success rates, with no statistically significant differences at either time point (p = .756 and p = .520, respectively).

The researchers concluded that the Li maneuver is a safe, simple, and effective treatment for BPPV. Compared to the Epley maneuver, the Li maneuver is easier to learn, requires less time, and is particularly suitable for patients with limited neck mobility. These advantages make it a promising alternative for clinicians and patients alike in managing this common vestibular disorder.

Reference: Li, J., Tian, S., & Zou, S. (2017). Efficacy of the Li maneuver in treating posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Acta Oto-Laryngologica, 137(6), 588-592.