Balance Tests
Reviewed
Also called: Vestibular balance testing, Vestibular testing
Balance tests are a group of tests that check for balance disorders, such as vertigo or unsteadiness. They help find the cause of balance problems so you can get the right treatment and avoid falls. Common tests include electronystagmography (ENG), videonystagmography (VNG), rotary chair test, posturography, VEMP, and Dix-Hallpike maneuver. Some tests may cause temporary dizziness or nausea.
Specimen: N/A
Urgent safety information
Routine
Why this test may be ordered
- To diagnose balance disorders when you have symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, falling, staggering, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or confusion
- To identify the specific type of balance disorder (e.g., BPPV, labyrinthitis, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, perilymph fistula, MdDS)
- To screen older adults for fall risk even without symptoms
Preparation and collection
Wear loose, comfortable clothes. Depending on the specific test, you may be asked to avoid certain foods or medicines before testing. Do not stop any medicine without talking to your provider first. You may want to arrange for someone to drive you home if dizziness lasts longer.
Balance tests involve a series of procedures. Common tests include: Electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG) to measure eye movements; rotary chair test; posturography (CDP); vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP); Dix-Hallpike maneuver or video head impulse test (vHIT). You may also need hearing tests or imaging. Your provider will determine which tests are needed.
Certain tests may make you feel dizzy or sick to your stomach; these feelings usually go away in a few minutes. You may want to have someone bring you home in case dizziness lasts longer. No permanent risks are described.
Understanding results
Balance tests evaluate whether dizziness or unsteadiness originates from your inner ear. Results help identify possible balance disorders. Always discuss your results with your provider.
- No significant balance disorder detected: No evidence of a balance disorder was found based on the tests performed. Limitation: A normal result does not rule out all balance disorders. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional. Next step: No immediate action needed. If symptoms persist or develop, consult your provider.
- Possible balance disorder detected: The test results suggest a possible balance disorder. Your provider will determine the specific condition and treatment. Limitation: These tests are diagnostic but may not identify all causes. Further evaluation may be needed. Next step: Your provider may recommend additional diagnostic tests or referral to a specialist (audiologist or otolaryngologist).
- Some tests may cause temporary dizziness or nausea that usually resolves in a few minutes.
- Results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional; there is no single reference interval or unit provided by the source.
- Balance disorders can be difficult to diagnose, and multiple tests may be needed.
What to do next
If your results indicate a possible balance disorder, your provider may order additional tests or start treatment. Treatment depends on the type of disorder, such as the Epley maneuver for BPPV, diet and lifestyle changes for Meniere's disease, or balance retraining therapy. Discuss follow-up with your healthcare professional.
- What specific balance tests do you recommend for my symptoms?
- How should I prepare for each test?
- What do my test results mean for my condition?
- Will I need additional testing or follow-up?