Balance and Dizziness Testing Diagnostics

 

The purpose of diagnostic testing in balance and dizziness is to identify and quantify the specific impairments that contribute to symptoms.  There are two primary diagnostic tests that are absolutely necessary to obtain the adequate information for physicians to make a specific diagnosis.  The ENG/VNG and Posturography are the standard in balance centers across the United States.

ENG/VNG
(Electronystamography/Videonystamography)

   

 

The VNG is a battery of tests that uses eye movement as an indication of vestibular function.  It is capable of assessing  the peripheral vestibular function (Inner ear and vestibular nerve) and central vestibular function (brainstem and cerebellum).

The results of the VNG allows for a more useful and specific diagnosis and is an indicator for appropriate treatment.

The use of the VNG for balance and dizziness testing is recommended by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN).  The answer to balance and dizziness problems being with finding the cause of the problems and not just treating the symptoms.  The VNG identifies impairments and the general condition of the vestibular system.

Posturography

Posturography is a test that isolates the sensory systems involved in balance.  The three systems are Somatosensory (feet and ankles, Visual, and Vestibular.