Evaluation 2: Inner Ear/Vestibular Testing
Your second test, the inner ear test, will be with a MABI audiologist. Our audiologists are trained with an in-depth understanding of the the "vestibular" system inside the ear, which is one of the body's balance mechanisms.
This test consists of VNG/Videonystagmography and caloric irrigations. "Calorics," warm and cool air stimulating the ear, is considered to be the top test for vestibular disorders. The VNG also detects abnormalities in the vestibular system, which are recorded through a jerking of your eyes. A flaw within the vestibular system will cause eye jerks detectable only by special equipment and a well-trained audiologist. These can help determine if a fault in the inner ear is the cause of your balance issue. MABI uses VNG goggles equipped with tiny cameras, and related computer software to record eye movements.
This test is designed to help MABI understand the origin of your balance problem, while the functional test develops a picture of how the it impacts the entire body. With our two-fold process of testing, MABI can determine both the nature and impact of your issue.
Furthermore, the same nerve that sends balance information to the brain also helps with hearing. During this test, MABI's audiologist may also perform an audiogram (hearing test,) on you, if not performed prior to our testing.
To learn more about this test, please see the FAQ and Resources sections of our website, or contact MABI with questions.
Click here to view photos of this evaluation.
