VESTIBULAR DISORDERS & REHABILITATION
What are Vestibular Disorders and What are their Symptoms?
Vestibular disorders are inner ear disorders that have varying causes and numerous symptoms. Symptoms of vestibular disorders may include one or more of the following:
- poor balance
- history or risk of falls
- persistent vertigo
- positional vertigo
- blurred vision
- motion sensitivity
- headache, neck stiffness
Vestibular Disorder Diagnostic Tests
Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)
A CDP test is part of the diagnostic assessment of imbalance or dizziness and is used to identify the underlying sensory (vestibular, visual, somatosensory) and motor control impairments. A CDP test is used to identify and differentiate the functional impairments associated with the disorder.
CDP Testing Procedure
During a CDP test, the patient wears a harness and stands in an enclosure that has a moveable support surface and a visual surround display. The patient is exposed to movement of the support surface and the visual surround display, during which the patient's postural stability and motor reactions are recorded. The entire test set takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. The information gathered from this test can be used to determine if a patient may benefit from vestibular rehabilitation.
Electronystagmography (ENG)
This battery of tests is used to help assess the function of a patient's vestibular system. The vestibular system, comprising the inner ear and associated nerves, is part of a complex system that helps control eye movement and balance. Measurement of certain types of eye movement can help determine how well the vestibular system is functioning.
ENG Testing Procedure
One ENG test includes an evaluation of the movement of the patient's eyes as they follow a moving target. Another portion of the test observes eye movement as the patient's head is positioned in different directions. During the caloric portion of the test, warm or cool air (or water) is briefly directed into the ear canal, stimulating a part of the inner ear that generates eye movement. This may cause a momentary spinning sensation that typically lasts about 60 seconds. The entire ENG test takes approximately 1½ hours and is not painful.
We recommend that patients have someone help them with their transportation after this visit. This is a precautionary recommendation in case patients feel dizzy or simply do not feel comfortable driving after the tests. If you would like to know whether this applies to you specifically, please ask the receptionist when you confirm your appointment.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) - What is It?
VRT is a form of physical therapy designed to help patients learn compensation and habituation techniques. The therapist begins with a thorough patient evaluation, including observation of the patient's balance, posture, gait, and movement. Each patient is given compensatory strategies with an individually designed routine of exercises and activities to perform at home. Patients attend regular follow-up visits with the physical therapist until the best possible results are achieved.
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