Computerized Balance Testing

The Process
Vestibular treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the Vestibular and Balance system, to develop a clinical diagnosis and measure functional impairment. Computerized assessment with a Balance Master provides objective data regarding sensory input and balance control, enabling your Therapist to develop the most effective program.

Get "Back in Balance"
Balance is a complex task that is controlled by the Visual system, Vestibular system of the inner ear and joint sensors of the Somatosensory system. These systems work together to provide input to the brain which allows you to dance, run and walk. Weakness in any of these systems can cause episodes of vertigo, impaired function and increased risk for falling.

Are you headed for a fall?
When we are young it is easy to blame sudden falls on environmental factors, such as loose carpets, slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or just plain recklessness! But as we grow older, a sudden fall should raise the question that something might be wrong. Loss of balance and mobility are not inevitable as we grow older!

There are several known risk factors, both related to yourself (physical fitness / ailments, psychological and social factors) and your environment (the surfaces you walk on, obstacles, lighting, etc.), that can increase your susceptibility to falling. Some common indications include symptoms of dizziness or unsteadiness, taking one or more medications, a recent period of bed rest or inactivity, loss of strength or feeling in the legs or feet, or a loss of confidence in your ability to get around.

Are you at risk for a fall?
Take the Self Balance Test
To help determine if you may be headed for a fall, take the Balance Self Test below. If you answer yes to one or more questions, you could be at risk. The best way to determine if you have a problem, however, is to talk with you physician who might recommend that you get a balance screening test from a qualified clinician.

1. Have you fallen more than once in the past year? YES or NO
2. Do you take medicine for two or more of thefollowing diseases: Heart disease, hypertension, arthritis, anxiety ordepression? YES or NO
3. Do you feel dizzy or unsteady if you make suddenchanges in movement, such as bending down or quickly turning? YES or NO
4. Do you have black-outs or seizures? YES or NO
5. Have you experienced a stroke or otherneurological problem that has affected your balance? YES or NO
6. Do you experience numbness or loss of sensationin your legs and or / or feet? YES or NO
7. Do you use a walker or wheelchair, or do you needassistance to get around? YES or NO
8. Are you inactive? (Answer yes if you do notparticipate in a regular form of exercise, such as walking 20-30 minutesat least three times a week.) YES or NO
9. Do you feel unsteady when you are walking orclimbing stairs? YES or NO
10. Do you have difficulty sitting down or raisingfrom a seated or lying position? YES or NO