Our state of the art 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 not working well, physical therapy is provided to get them back to normal function.
What Happens During the Test?
Three sets of tests are performed in total. The first test looks at your three balance systems, the second at 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.
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.