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Balance Center
Over 90 million Americans, age 17 and older, have experienced dizziness or balance problems according to the Vestibular (inner ear) Disorders Association, and the new Balance Center is well suited to diagnose and treat these problems. The balance system is comprised of sensory receptors in the eyes, muscles, joints and inner ear. These sensors work together to maintain steadiness and balance.
The new Balance Center uses a multidisciplinary program to diagnose and treat symptoms that impact balance. These symptoms can include chronic unsteadiness, vertigo, dizziness and impaired balance. While these are not life threatening problems they can greatly hinder a person's quality of life including, decreased social activity, fatigue, loss of stamina as a result of dizziness, and an increased risk of falling.
The center offers state-of-the-art, non-invasive technology to evaluate balance concerns. Evaluation begins with Videonystagmography (VNG), a group of tests that monitor the inner ear and movement of the eyes. This test looks for signs of underlying neurological or vestibular disorder. Testing continues with Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP), which uses sensors and computer monitors to record body movement while the patient attempts to maintain balance under various conditions. This test can determine if any component of the balance system is not functioning properly.
Once a patient's exact condition is diagnosed, a team of audiologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists and physicians will develop a customized plan of treatment. Therapy may include exercise programs, education in fall prevention and training in functional activities.
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