Ian Purcell MD PhD Otoneurology Call 858 223 2172
Otoneurology · San Diego

Specialist care for vertigo, balance, and complex neurology.

Dr. Ian Purcell, MD PhD, leads a dedicated otoneurology practice for patients with vestibular disorders, migraine, and unexplained dizziness — combining clinical neurology with research-grade diagnostics.

30+
Years in clinical neurology & vestibular research
San Diego Magazine Top Doctor (2016–2023)
16
Conditions we treat across vestibular & general neurology
Board-certified neurology
Dr. Purcell, MD PhD · Dr. Patel, MD
San Diego Top Doctor
Recognized annually 2016–2023
Research-grade diagnostics
VNG, VEMP, CDP & vertigo recording
Most insurance plans
Conditions we treat

Comprehensive care for vestibular and complex neurological disorders.

From benign positional vertigo and Meniere's disease to vestibular migraine, post-concussive syndromes, and rare neurological conditions — each patient receives a thorough work-up and a clear, individualized plan.

Cardiac Arrhythmias

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Gait Ataxia

Gait ataxia is a form of ataxia (lack of muscle control) that affects walking and is characterized by uncoord…

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Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can result from damage to different parts of the ear, including the outer, middle, and inner ear…

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Meniere’s Disease

Meniere's Disease is a disorder of the inner ear causing severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tin…

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Nerve Pain

Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, is caused by damage or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. I…

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Neuromuscular Disorders

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Viral Neuronitis / Labyrinthitis

These conditions involve inflammation of the inner ear or the nerves that connect the ear to the brain, often…

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Neuropathy

Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, involves damage or dysfunction of one or more nerves, resulting in numb…

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Nystagmus

Nystagmus is defined as any rhythmic, involuntary oscillation of the eyes. It can either be physiological or…

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Orthostatic Hypotension

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Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually,…

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Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are conditions that significantly affect an individual's ability to achieve restful, restorat…

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Tinnitus

Tinnitus is characterized by hearing noises in the ears that are not caused by an external source. Types incl…

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Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal Neuralgia is a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from…

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Vertigo (BPPV)

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of vertigo that results from dislodged calcium…

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Vestibular Disorders

Vestibular disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the vestibular system, which is crucial for ma…

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Portrait of Dr. Ian Purcell
About Dr. Purcell

A clinician-scientist focused on the vestibular system.

Dr. Ian Purcell is a clinical neurologist with an additional focus in otoneurology and headache management. He completed the combined MD/PhD program in Neuroscience at the University of Texas Medical Branch, with six years of NASA-funded research in vestibular neurophysiology.

An aviator and active researcher, Dr. Purcell is involved in the innovation of new vestibular technologies and continues to publish on the vestibular system — bringing that research perspective directly into the exam room.

Education
MD & PhD
Specialty
Otoneurology
Experience
30+ years
Recognition

Eight consecutive years as a San Diego Top Doctor.

Dr. Purcell and Dr. Patel have been recognized by San Diego Magazine for sustained excellence in patient care and clinical innovation.

2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Visit our clinic

San Diego specialty otoneurology, by appointment.

7625 Mesa College Drive, Suite 200A
San Diego, CA 92111

Phone
(858) 223-2172
Fax
(858) 533-8397
Hours
Monday – Thursday · 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Insurance
View accepted plans