The Dix-Hallpike maneuver is designed provoke a nystagmus response from a patient with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The response begins after the patient reaches the head-hanging position. It is always transient, always accompanied by vertigo, and usually begins after a delay of at least a few seconds.

Posterior canal BPPV of the right ear. The nystagmus response occurs (or at least is stronger) when the patient is placed with the right ear undermost.

Posterior canal BPPV of the left ear. The nystagmus response occurs (or at least is stronger) when the patient is placed with the left ear undermost.

There are several variants of BPPV, but ninety-five percent of patients with BPPV have the posterior canal variant.