Our Doctor of Audiology has been trained and is certified in Vestibular Assessment and Management from the renowned American Institute of Balance (AIB-VAM). We can assess vestibular and balance issues by checking your 3 pillars of balance function: vision, vestibular, and postural/structural integrity.
Your physician or other healthcare professional will be provided a vestibular report that can help develop treatment plans in the future. The cost for a dizziness / balance assessment (including comprehensive audiometry) is $135.00.
Balance and Dizziness Screening or Assessment
During a balance and dizziness screening or assessment, we will perform a series of evaluations to determine the underlying cause of balance and dizziness issues. Here are three steps they may take:
Gather information about your medical history, current symptoms, and any recent events or conditions that may have triggered balance and dizziness problems.
Assess various aspects of your balance and coordination. This may include tests of your posture, gait (walking pattern), and stability. We will observe your movements, looking for signs of imbalance or abnormal coordination.
Depending on the findings from the medical history and physical examination, we may perform tests to help pinpoint any issues with the inner ear’s function, which can contribute to balance and dizziness problems.
Vestibular Function Tests
These tests evaluate the function of your inner ear’s vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in balance and spatial orientation. Vestibular tests may include:
Functional balance assessment including Gans SOP Assessment: Functional assessment of a patient’s sensory organization for balance function specifically the vestibulospinal pathway.
Positional vertigo assessment: Eye movements are monitored while you move into various positions.
Vestibulo-ocular reflex screening: These tests evaluate the inner ear’s response to head movement checking for coordination with eye movements.
Benefits to Getting a Professional Balance & Dizziness Assessment
A professional assessment provides a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to understanding and managing balance and dizziness problems, ultimately leading to improved quality of life and well-being. Having an assessment of your balance or dizziness problem offers several important benefits:
Accurate Diagnosis
Prevent Falls
Tailored Treatment
Improved Quality of Life
Symptom Relief
Prevention of Recurrence
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Balance & Dizziness FAQs
What causes dizziness?
Falls are a huge concern for our aging population. Dizziness and instability are often causes of major falls. Dizziness is the most common reported symptom after the age of 65 and is quite often caused by vestibular changes as we age.
What are the common causes of balance problems and dizziness?
Balance problems and dizziness can result from various factors, including inner ear disorders, vestibular issues, medication side effects, neurological conditions, or cardiovascular problems.
When should I seek medical attention for balance or dizziness issues?
You should seek medical help if you experience persistent or severe dizziness, sudden or unexplained balance problems, or if these issues interfere with your daily life.
Can balance problems be related to ear conditions?
Yes, inner ear disorders, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or Meniere’s disease, are common causes of balance issues.
What is vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), and how does it help with balance problems?
VRT is a specialized form of physical therapy that helps improve balance and reduce dizziness by targeting the vestibular system’s function.
Is it normal to feel unsteady as you age?
While some balance changes may occur with aging, significant and persistent balance problems are not considered a normal part of the aging process and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Can dizziness be a sign of a more serious medical condition?
In some cases, dizziness can be a symptom of a serious underlying condition, such as a neurological disorder or cardiovascular problem. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential.
Are there any home remedies for managing dizziness?
Home remedies may include hydration, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, using assistive devices, and practicing relaxation techniques to manage stress.
Are there medications available to treat dizziness?
Depending on the underlying cause, medications may be prescribed to alleviate dizziness symptoms, such as antihistamines for motion sickness or vestibular suppressants.
Are there lifestyle changes that can help with balance and dizziness problems?
Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding triggers, staying hydrated, and managing stress, can often help manage symptoms.
These FAQs provide general information about balance and dizziness issues, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized assessment and guidance based on your specific symptoms and needs.
If you require further information or have additional questions about balance and dizziness assessments, please do not hesitate to contact Bright Hearing for expert guidance and assistance.