Balance problems affect many adults, with Johns Hopkins research showing that one-third of people over 40 experience vestibular disorders, increasing to half of those over 60. At our Charlotte office, our comprehensive balance testing helps identify the root cause of your symptoms and creates an effective treatment path.

Signs You May Need Balance Testing

Balance testing might benefit you if you experience recurring dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) that impacts your daily activities. Many patients come to us reporting unsteadiness when walking or difficulty maintaining balance. Other common signs include unexplained falls, increased sensitivity to motion, trouble judging distances, vision changes during movement, or new motion sickness symptoms.

Our Advanced Testing Methods

Videonystagmography (VNG) Testing

VNG testing uses specialized goggles with built-in cameras to track your eye movements during various head positions. This technology helps us evaluate how well your inner ear system communicates with your brain to maintain balance.

Topple Diagnostic Testing

This state-of-the-art technology provides detailed measurements of your balance abilities under different conditions. The Topple system measures specific areas of balance weakness, allowing us to track improvement during treatment and identify potential fall risks before they become problems.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Before Your Test

For optimal results, we recommend skipping caffeine consumption the day before testing and avoiding eye makeup if having VNG testing. Please wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes, and bring a list of your current medications. We suggest arranging transportation home, as some tests may cause temporary dizziness.

During Your Appointment

Your 60-90 minute appointment includes several key components. We begin with an initial consultation to discuss your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life. Next, we perform a basic examination of your ears and eyes, along with preliminary balance checks.

The main testing portion includes:

• Standing balance tests
• Movement assessments
• Position testing
• VNG testing when indicated

Common Balance Conditions We Treat

Our testing helps diagnose various balance disorders including:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

‍BPPV occurs when inner ear calcium crystals move out of position, causing brief but intense dizziness episodes.

Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis

‍These conditions involve inner ear inflammation, often following viral infections.

Age-Related Balance Changes

‍Natural aging can affect balance, but proper assessment and treatment help maintain stability.

Medication-Related Issues

‍Some medications may impact balance function. We work with your healthcare providers to identify and address these issues.

Treatment Options

Based on your test results, we develop personalized treatment plans. Vestibular rehabilitation provides custom exercise programs to retrain your balance system. Balance retraining sessions focus on improving stability and confidence during daily activities. We may also recommend lifestyle modifications to help manage symptoms and reduce fall risks.

Working Together for Your Care

Balance care often requires collaboration with other healthcare providers. We maintain strong working relationships with primary care physicians, physical therapists, neurologists, and ENT specialists to ensure comprehensive care for our patients.

Insurance Coverage

Many insurance plans cover balance testing and treatment. Our staff will verify your coverage and explain any out-of-pocket costs before beginning testing.

Schedule Your Balance Assessment

Don't let balance problems limit your activities or put you at risk for falls. Our new South Park office features advanced testing technology, and our experienced team will work with you to find effective solutions. Call us at (704) 912-4422 to schedule your comprehensive balance assessment.