Posturography:

Computerized dynamic posturography is a test of ones ability to maintain balance.  The patient is asked to stand on a platform.  During the test, they will be asked to open or close their eyes for brief periods of time.  While doing so, the platform and/or the surrounding booth may move.  The test evaluates the individual’s response to each test to maintain balance.  A harness or handrails are often present to help prevent falling.  The computer records test responses.  The procedure is painless and takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete.

A patient may experience dizziness or imbalance during portions of the test.  In a clinical environment, these symptoms may provide the doctor with valuable information about the condition.  The doctor can learn more about the cause of the patient’s dizziness or imbalance.  The test examines the patient’s ability to use their sense of balance--including the integration of input from the eyes, inner ear, joints and muscles.  It is used to assess an individual’s ability to perform effective movements and regain their balance.  The results of the test can also help the doctor determine the best course of treatment for the patient.  It can also identify those environments in which a patient may be at risk of falling, and help them to learn techniques to prevent falls.

Psychological Testing

During the course of a psychological workup, a professional will ask questions to help assess an individual’s mood, energy level, sleep qualities and ability to concentrate.  The professional will also assess the potential motives surrounding how an individual feels.  This includes determining whether pain may be magnified for secondary gain, whether emotional or financial.  The psychological evaluation, as well as the assessment of pain, may incorporate quantitative psychometric testing in the form of questionnaires that can be graded and compared to “normalâ€?.  This provides a baseline of a person’s perception and response to pain.  It is also used to evaluate an individual’s sense of self and physical capacity.  A follow-up psychometric evaluation can be performed during the course of therapeutic intervention to help measure the therapeutic outcome.