The Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) is a virtual reality system used to diagnose your balance problems. We have three main systems that we use to balance. These are the eyes, the inner ear, and our bodies. Through a series of tests, these systems will be assessed and compared to the average for your age group and gender. If one or more of these systems are impaired, physical therapy is provided to return them to normal function.
What Happens During the Test?
Three sets of tests are performed in total. The first test assesses your balance systems, the second your reaction times, and the third tests your ability to adapt.
During the first test, your ability to keep your balance will be checked with your eyes open and closed, on a stable and moving surface. Additionally, your ability to stay steady while lines on a screen move in front of you. As you perform this test, the CDP measures whether you are using your ankles, or hips to stay balanced, along with checking that your center of gravity is correct.
During the second test, the floor will move forwards and backwards underneath your feet and measure how quickly you respond. Again, your center of gravity, is measured throughout the test.
In the third test, the floor moves up and down, measuring how much energy you use to keep your balance.
All tests are performed with you harnessed up and attached to the machine. This is to ensure your safety, where it is literally impossible to fall. A trained person will be holding onto you throughout the test to provide extra support as needed.
What do the Results tell me?
The results of the test will be analysed and discussed with you on site so you can ask any questions at the time. However, if you had a hard time keeping your balance with your eyes open, it suggests that your visual system is impaired. If you sway more than usual with your eyes closed, or moving images/lines, it indicates that the inner ea is not functioning normally. The test will also determine if your reaction times and postural stability on a moving surface is normal. Furthermore, your ability to learn from repetitive motions will be analyzed to ensure your central nervous system is working effectively.
These results are then used to develop a treatment plan to get you better as efficiently as possible. If physical therapy is needed to improve your balance, this test will be performed intermittently to track your progress.
Call us at (240) 361 – 9000 if you have any questions or would like more information about this test.