THE NEW STANDARD FOR TESTING THE VESTIBULAR SYSTEM

THE PROBLEM:

  • 40% of the population will fall during their lifetime – this risk increases with age.
  • 60% of closed head trauma patients report dizziness.
  • 20% of the population have a unilateral vestibular loss.
  • 50% of all adults 65+ have a vestibular problem.
  • 40% of adults 65+ will experience a fall annually.
  • 50% of first time fallers will have repeated falls.

Dizziness and loss of balance are within the top three most common reasons for physician visits by the elderly.

Two patients with vestibular disorders doing core balance exercises on stability balls with help from physical therapist
Two patients on stability balls doing core balance exercises with help from physical therapist.

TESTING SOLUTION:

VIDEONYSTAGMOGRAPHY (VNG) TESTING

Videonystagmography (VNG) testing is considered the new standard for testing inner ear functions. VNG test measures the movements of the eyes directly through infrared cameras.

VNG test is used to determine if a vestibular (inner ear) disease may be causing a balance or dizziness problem, and is one of the only tests available today that can decipher between a unilateral (one ear) and bilateral (both ears) vestibular loss. VNG testing is a series of tests designed to document a person’s ability to follow visual objects with their eyes and how well the eyes respond to information from the vestibular system.

This test also addresses the functionality of each ear and if a vestibular deficit may be the cause of a dizziness or balance problem. To monitor the movements of the eyes, infrared goggles are placed around the eyes to record eye movements during testing. VNG test is non-invasive!

Get Ready For Your VNG Test…

Before the Test

Make sure that you bring with you any relevant results of other tests you have done in regards to your condition.  Have available the names of medications you are taking as well as your insurance information and any referral you have received from your doctor.  Do not use lotion in your arms and legs before you come for the test.

During the Test

Your Physical Therapist will explain to you the details of the testing procedures and all that it entails.  You will be comfortable during the test.  Make sure that you ask any questions that you may have.

After the Test

Your Physical Therapist will go over the preliminary test findings and how this may alter your physical therapy treatments. The test results will be forwarded to your physician if requested.

Call us now at 1-(855) EMG-TEST or 1-(855) 364-8378