Balance problems can be screened, evaluated, diagnosed and treated

Because there are many potential causes of dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance; specialized testing is often necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Jacksonville Hearing and Balance Institute offers a full range of state-of-the-art balance and vestibular (or inner ear) testing services. Be sure to read about Balance Testing Preparation Guidelines (PDF) to prepare for your testing.

Diagnostic Tests and Treatment

Your physician will first take a detailed case history, perform a clinical examination, and review any outside records. If it is likely that an inner ear disorder is present, diagnostic testing may be ordered.  Compared to screening tests, diagnostic testing is more thorough, takes longer to complete, and is very accurate in the identification of specific disorders. Diagnostic tests at JHBI include:

Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)

• Useful in determining patient’s fall risk.
• Compares patient’s balance function to other individuals of the same age.

Rotational Chair Testing

• Measures patient’s ability to maintain visual fixation on an object during head movements.
• Useful in identifying inner ear vs. brain disorders and to confirm bilateral weaknesses.

Videonystagmography (VNG)

• Specific comparison between right and left ear vestibular function.
• Identifies dizziness/vertigo related to changes in body position.

Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP)

• Specific comparison between right and left ear vestibular function.
• Useful in determining a unilateral vestibular weakness.

Electrocochleography (ECochG)

• Useful in identifying excessive inner ear pressure.
• Useful to confirm the presence of Meniere’s disease.

Canalith Repositioning Procedure (CRP) / Epley Maneuver

• Treatment for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), one of the most common causes of dizziness and vertigo.