GETTING HELP
Find a Balance Specialist Near You
If you have experienced a recent fall, feel unsteady on your feet, have spells
of dizziness, or have other reason to believe you might have a balance problem,
you should talk to your doctor. While your family physician may not be a
balance specialist, he or she can refer you to a qualified clinician who is
equipped to do balance assessments and other related tests to determine the
underlying cause(s) of your problem.
Depending on your symptoms and health status, your physician may request the
opinion of an otolaryngologist or neurologist who specializes in balance
problems to help evaluate your balance problem. Otolaryngologists
specialize in diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.
Symptoms of dizziness or unsteadiness may be caused by disorders of the ear or
vestibular systems. An otolaryngologist with expertise in the balance system of
the ear can most effectively evaluate these medical factors and recommend
treatment where indicated.
A neurologist is a physician who specializes in diseases and
disorders of the brain and central nervous system, including the system
responsible for controlling balance. Neurologists with expertise in the sensory
and motor control systems of the brain can be particularly helpful in assessing
balance problems related to the brain.
The otolaryngologist or neurologist will obtain a detailed medical history and
perform a physical examination to begin sorting out possible medical causes of
your balance problem. Special tests may be ordered to assess the cause of your
balance disorder. These tests will vary, depending on your symptoms and health
status. Different tests for evaluating balance function are discussed on this
web site under "Testing Balance Disorders".
Your primary care physician or medical specialist may also request an evaluation
by a rehabilitation specialist, a physical therapist
or occupational therapist
trained in assessing and retraining balance. Assisted by the medical history
provided by your doctor, this specialist will perform specific tests to
determine your ability to maintain your balance, as well as your risk for
falling. Some physical therapists are also equipped to perform specialized
equilibrium tests, which evaluate the sensory and motor parts of your balance
system. Sensory tests assess the three sensory systems (inner ears, eyes, and
sense of touch in your feet and joints) that contribute to balance control.
Motor tests measure your ability to execute coordinated movements, both
voluntary and involuntary, to maintain your balance. These tests will help
define the functional impact of your balance problem and will help your
physician and therapist customize your treatment for maximum benefit.
In some communities, comprehensive Balance Centers include specialized medical
evaluation (by otolaryngologists or neurologists) and functional impairment
assessment (by physical or occupational therapists) in the same facility. Your
physician can refer you, or in many cases, you can contact the center directly
to set up an appointment.
If your physician would like more information about balance disorders,
www.onbalance.com
is an educational resource for clinical issues relating to balance.
Find a Balance Specialist Near You
To find a balance specialist near you, click on your
state on the map below.
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