Balance & Dizziness
Diagnostic testing and treatment for balance in Western New York.
Balance and Dizziness
Balance and dizziness disorders are common conditions affecting adults and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Common causes may include:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Meniere’s Disease
- Vestibular migraine
- Labyrinthitis/ Vestibular Neuritis
- Acoustic Neuroma/ Vestibular Schwannoma
- Concussion
- Aging
Our team of audiologists can complete a variety of tests to help find the cause of your symptoms and guide you to the appropriate treatment.
Balance FAQs
How do you diagnose causes of dizziness or imbalance?
Dizziness and balance difficulties often result from problems in the vestibular system, which is linked to the hearing system in the inner ear. However, it is important to examine a patient’s medical history to identify any past conditions or medications that may cause imbalance or dizziness. A series of balance tests designed to identify the source of a person’s dizziness allows an audiologist to identify which parts of the hearing or vestibular system are not functioning normally.
How does testing help diagnose and treat dizziness and imbalance?
Dizziness and balance problems often result from problems in the vestibular system, part of which is located in the inner ear. Therefore, balance tests, such as VNG Testing, Rotary Chair Testing, VEMP Testing, and Electrocochleography can evaluate the integrity of the vestibular system. Balance testing allows your audiologist to localize the source of imbalance or dizziness by identifying which components are not functioning properly.
Are there effective treatments available for my dizziness?
Everyone experiences dizziness differently and there are many different causes. Though treatment will vary from person to person, two commonly used treatments are vestibular rehabilitation therapy and canalith repositioning maneuvers. Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based therapy program designed to improve balance and minimize dizziness symptoms. Canalith repositioning maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver, can help relieve vertigo associated with a positive diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The treatment that is best for you will be determined by the cause of your dizziness.
How do I know if I should get a balance test?
You should have your balance evaluated if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- A feeling of motion with certain movements, such as quick head turns, rolling over, or getting out of bed
- Have trouble walking on uneven surfaces
- Feel unsteady or need to touch something while walking
- Sometimes feel like you have no control of your feet
- Feel uneasy looking out of the window of a moving car
- Feel as though you are swaying or leaning toward one direction while you are walking
