Vestibular tests for rehabilitation: Applications and interpretation

Vestibularfunctiontestingplaysacriticalroleinunderstandingbalancedisorders. Thesetestsaugmentawell-performed history and physical exam in providing quantitative information regarding vestibular reflexes, central oculomotor function and postural control strategies. Video-oculography (VOG) and caloric stimulation play a major role in evaluation of both peripheral vestibular and central oculomotor disorders. Rotational chair testing and, more recently the Dynamic Visual Acuity Test (DVAT) and Gaze Stabilization Test (GST) provide information regarding higher frequency vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) function. Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) explores the interaction of the vestibular, visual and proprioceptive systems for posture control. Finally, the cervical Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (cVEMP) test and the Dynamic Subjective Visual Vertical(DSVV)testprovide informationregardingsaccular andutricular function, respectively. Newtechniques and applications continue to provide knowledge both of disease processes and potential medical, surgical and rehabilitative interventions.