Balance Testing

Being unable to maintain your balance can be disorienting and may make you feel faint, dizzy, lightheaded, or as though you’re spinning. Dizziness and issues of balance can be the result of an underlying condition such as vertigo, Meniere’s disease, migraines, or head trauma.

Find your ENT Request Appointment

Our balance is maintained through the work of several areas of the body, which includes the vestibular system found in the inner ear. Balance disorders are a group of conditions that cause one to feel unbalanced. These conditions can impair your ability to perform your usual activities and make it difficult to walk. SFENTA offers balance testing to help determine if patients have a balance disorder. Our providers will be able to evaluate the systems responsible for balance and determine the cause of your condition.

How Balance Testing is Performed

There are a few types of balance tests available, but the most widely used is a videonystagmography (VNG). Because balance relies on the function of the inner ear, this test measures eye movements to evaluate the inner ear and motor functions. The VNG test is also used to look for vestibular disorders and pinpoint where the ear is affected. The test takes place in several parts:

Part one uses specialized glasses that are designed to record your eye movements. You will be seated in a dark room, and dots will begin to appear. The provider will ask you to follow the dots with your eyes.
In the second part, your provider will move your head or other areas of your body for evaluation.
The final step of the test uses water of varying temperatures that is poured into the ears to see the reactions.

woman sitting on a couch talking to a doctor

Conditions Highlighted by Balance Testing

Some of the conditions balance tests can help diagnose include:

Vertigo
Migraines
Meniere’s disease
Vestibular neuritis
Labyrinthitis
Head injuries

Balance disorders can also be the side effect of certain medications, which can be highlighted through testing.

Benefits of Balance Testing

Balance disorders can impact your life in a variety of ways, particularly your ability to walk and participate in the activities you love. Balance testing can help determine the reason for your balance problems and help your providers establish an effective treatment plan.

About SFENTA

SFENTA has created a network of providers and practices that are making comprehensive ENT care more accessible than ever. With over 50 board-certified providers and more than 30 locations, SFENTA is always ready to help. Our office provides each patient with:

Patient-Centered Care:

We provide genuine one-on-one care between patients and their providers, ensuring they feel seen and their concerns heard.

Continuity of Care

Our goal is to help patients find long-lasting relief from the symptoms that impact their lives.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

Our provider network is designed to foster internal collaboration, which leads to unique perspectives and ultimately better patient outcomes.

The Security of a Community Staple

With over 30 locations across the area, we’ve made finding quality care more straightforward and more accessible.

The Balance Testing Experience

Balance testing may require more than one test to determine the cause of your difficulty accurately. Your exact experience will vary based on your initial appointment with your provider and your symptoms. The eyes, inner ears, and motor functions will be the primary areas examined, but other areas may also be looked at. Once the testing is complete, the provider will analyze the results and provide you with a tailored treatment plan.

Balance Testing Candidates

If you’re having trouble maintaining your balance, you may be a candidate for balance testing. Those who experience dizziness or general feelings of being unsteady are also candidates, no matter the degree of concern.

FAQ

Is there more than one type of test available?

Yes. There are several types of testing available. Your provider will determine which type of test you receive after they have discussed your symptoms and medical history. In some cases, multiple tests are also required.

When should I see a doctor for balance concerns?

You should see a provider at the earliest onset of symptoms. Even if your symptoms are minor, balance testing can still help determine their cause.

Does SFENTA accept insurance?

Yes. We accept most forms of insurance. For more information on the insurance we accept, contact our office.