At Brainstorm, many various balance tests are incorporated into an examination. Some tests are simple bedside neurological exams, like reflex and muscle power tests, while some require specialised instrumentation, like computerized dynamic posturography (CDP).
CDP tests postural stability and provides information about motor control or balance function under varying environmental conditions. This is important because the ability to maintain balance depends not only on sensory information from the vision and the vestibular systems but also on sensory information that the brain receives from the muscles and joints. These somatosensory signals provide clues such as the direction of head turn and the texture and slope of the walking surface. CDP tests the relationships among these three sensory inputs and records the balance and posture adjustments a person makes in response to variations in reliable information provided by the vision and somatosensory systems.
The test involves standing on a platform, typically with some form of visual target to watch. The platform and/or the visual target move while pressure gauges under the platform record shifts in body weight (body sway) as the tested person maintains balance. A safety harness is worn to prevent falling during the test. Posturography gives information about how well balance is maintained during challenging situations. It can help doctors plan other vestibular testing and assist in treatment design.
For more information, please get in touch with Brainstorm or jump onto Balance Therapy.
