Balance disorders affect millions of Americans, impacting daily activities and quality of life. At Southwest Balance, Dizziness & Ear Institute, we understand that accurate diagnosis through comprehensive testing is the foundation of effective treatment. While Videonystagmography (VNG) testing is commonly used, our experience shows that it should be part of a broader diagnostic approach.

Understanding VNG Testing

VNG testing measures involuntary eye movements (nystagmus) to evaluate inner ear function. This test helps identify various balance disorders by analyzing how your eyes respond to different stimuli. During the test, you wear special goggles in a darkened room while following visual targets and moving your head into different positions.

Limitations of VNG Testing Alone

Studies indicate that relying solely on VNG testing may miss up to 68% of patients with vestibular disorders. This significant gap in diagnosis highlights why comprehensive testing is necessary. At our practice, we utilize a complete vestibular diagnostic battery that achieves a 95% diagnostic sensitivity rate.

Components of Comprehensive Balance Testing

A thorough balance evaluation includes several specialized tests beyond VNG:

• Computerized Dynamic Posturography: This assessment measures how well you maintain balance while standing. It helps determine if balance issues stem from the inner ear, vision problems, or nerve signals from your feet and legs.
• Rotary Chair Testing: By measuring coordination between your eyes and inner ear, this test provides valuable information about your balance system's functionality.
• Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT): This test evaluates the function of each semicircular canal by measuring eye movements in response to quick head movements, providing detailed information about specific parts of the vestibular system.
• Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP): This test assesses otolith function and specific neural pathways by measuring muscle responses to sound stimulation.
• Subjective Visual Vertical Testing: This assessment evaluates your perception of vertical orientation, which helps identify issues with the otolith organs that contribute to spatial orientation.

Common Balance Disorders We Diagnose

Through comprehensive testing, we can identify various balance conditions:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): The most common cause of vertigo in adults, characterized by spinning sensations during specific head movements.
• Labyrinthitis: An inner ear disorder causing temporary hearing loss and dizziness, often following a cold or flu.
• Vestibular Neuritis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve leading to vertigo and nausea, typically caused by a virus.
• Meniere's Disease: A condition involving vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fullness due to fluid buildup in the inner ear.

Advanced Vestibular Treatment

Our approach to balance disorders goes beyond basic testing. We employ Advanced Vestibular Treatment® (AVT), which achieves up to 93% clinical efficacy. This treatment integrates:

• Vestibular ocular reflex (VOR)
• Vestibular spinal reflex (VSR)
• Otolith functions

The treatment combines physical exercises with optokinetic stimulation, addressing both somatosensory and visual balance components. This comprehensive approach leads to significant improvements for 93% of patients within six weeks.

Technology in Balance Testing

We utilize cutting-edge diagnostic tools and therapeutic devices for precise assessments of vestibular function. This investment in technology enables us to:

• Evaluate movements beyond standard frequencies
• Assess all ten peripheral vestibular end organs
• Test both static and dynamic conditions
• Examine superior and inferior vestibular nerve function

The Importance of Specialized Care

With over 75 years of combined experience, our team of audiologists brings extensive knowledge to balance disorder diagnosis and treatment. Our specialists, including Dr. Dana Day, Dr. Susan Schmidt, and Dr. Mckell Larson, have dedicated their careers to understanding and treating vestibular disorders.

The Balance and Hearing Connection

Many people don't realize that our hearing and balance systems are closely connected within the inner ear. The same structures that help us hear also play a critical role in maintaining balance. This is why audiologists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat balance disorders.

When the fluid-filled canals of the inner ear are affected by infection, trauma, or age-related changes, both hearing and balance can suffer. Our comprehensive approach includes evaluating both systems to identify any underlying connections between hearing loss and balance issues.

Balance Problems and Aging

As we age, balance problems become more common and can lead to serious consequences. According to national statistics, one in three adults over 65 experiences a fall each year, with many resulting in serious injuries. Balance disorders contribute significantly to this risk.

Age-related changes to the vestibular system, reduced visual acuity, and decreased muscle strength all contribute to balance difficulties. Early detection through comprehensive testing allows for proactive treatment, potentially preventing falls and maintaining independence longer.

Our testing protocols are designed to identify specific deficits related to age-related balance changes, allowing us to create targeted treatment plans that address these unique challenges.

Impact of Balance Disorders on Quality of Life

Balance disorders can significantly impact daily activities that many take for granted. Simple tasks like getting out of bed, walking through a grocery store, or driving can become challenging or even frightening.

Many patients with undiagnosed balance disorders report:

• Avoiding social activities due to fear of dizziness
• Increased anxiety about falling
• Reduced physical activity
• Difficulty concentrating at work
• Disrupted sleep patterns

Through proper diagnosis and treatment, these impacts can be reduced or eliminated, allowing patients to return to their normal activities with confidence.

The Patient Experience During Balance Testing

Many patients wonder what to expect during balance testing. At Southwest Balance, we prioritize patient comfort throughout the diagnostic process.

Before testing begins, our audiologists take time to explain each procedure and answer questions. Most tests take place in a comfortable, controlled environment where you'll be seated or standing. While some tests may momentarily produce dizziness, these sensations typically subside quickly.

The entire diagnostic battery usually takes about 180-240 minutes, depending on the specific tests needed. Throughout the process, our skilled technicians are present to ensure your safety and comfort.

When to Seek Balance Testing

Consider balance testing if you experience:

• Dizziness or vertigo
• Unsteadiness while walking
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Lightheadedness
• Problems maintaining balance
• Frequent falls
• Feeling like you or your surroundings are spinning
• Sensation of being pulled in one direction
• Blurry vision during movement
• Motion sickness beyond what's typical

Your Path to Better Balance Starts Here

Balance disorders can significantly impact your daily life, but proper diagnosis and treatment can help restore your stability and confidence. Our team at Southwest Balance, Dizziness & Ear Institute specializes in comprehensive balance testing and treatment.

Don't let dizziness or unsteadiness limit your life any longer. Contact us at (602) 265-9000 to schedule an evaluation at our Phoenix location. Our experienced audiologists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on thorough diagnostic testing, helping you regain your stability and enjoy life with confidence.