Understanding Balance Testing
What is Balance Testing?
Balance testing is a series of assessments designed to diagnose balance disorders. These disorders can cause dizziness, unsteadiness, and even falls. Balance is maintained through a complex interaction between your inner ear, eyes, and sensory systems in your muscles and joints.
How is Balance Testing done?
There are a variety of tests that may be used in evaluating balance disorders:
- Electronystagmography (ENG) and Videonystagmography (VNG): These tests track eye movements to assess the vestibular system in your inner ear.
- Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT): This test is a cutting-edge assessment used to diagnose asymmetries in vestibular function between the ears. By using lightweight video goggles, vHIT measures eye velocity and detects any abnormalities. Acute Hearing is the only location in the Cincinnati metropolitan area currently offering this test.
- Tympanometry: This test measures the movement of the eardrum and the pressure in the middle ear. It’s a safe procedure that can help identify issues with the middle ear, such as fluid or a hole in the eardrum.
- Rotary Chair Test: This evaluates how well your inner ear and brain work together to maintain balance.
- Posturography: This test measures your ability to maintain balance under different conditions.
- Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP): This assesses the function of the otolith organs in your inner ear.
Important Information About Balance Testing
Balance disorders can stem from various causes, including inner ear problems, middle ear issues, head injuries, hearing loss and certain medications. Symptoms might include vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus, loss of hearing and difficulty walking. Identifying the cause of balance issues is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of falls.
Benefits of Balance Testing
- Accurate Diagnosis: Pinpoint the exact cause of your balance issues.
- Personalized Treatment: Develop a tailored treatment plan to improve your balance and reduce the risk of falls.
- Improved Quality of Life: Regain confidence in your mobility and daily activities.
Why Choose Acute Hearing Centers for Balance Testing?
At Acute Hearing Centers, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive and compassionate care. Here’s why we’re the best choice for your balance testing needs:
- Expertise: Our team includes highly trained audiologists and specialists with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating balance disorders.
- Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate and thorough testing, some of which you will not find anywhere else in the Tri-State area.
- Personalized Care: We take the time to understand your unique needs and develop a customized treatment plan.
- Comprehensive Services: From diagnosis to treatment, we offer a full range of services to support your balance and hearing health.