Balance disorders and dizziness are subjective perceptions associated with symptoms of damage or abnormalities in the balance system. As the quality of life of patients complaining of disequilibrium disorders is significantly reduced, early diagnosis and rehabilitation is important, since, on the one hand, such abnormalities may indicate a minor problem, but, on the other hand, they may suggest the development of a serious condition. Both functional tests and balance platforms can be used for the clinical diagnosis of balance disorders.
Balance platform - posturography tests
When one of the stimuli is interrupted, rocking intens ifies (this is particularly noticeable after the age of 60). Increased sway can be assessed by measuring the parameters of the movement of the centre of pressure of the feet, recorded by a computerised balance platform. This is a device from which we can read changes in the direction of foot pressure on the platform surface - thus we are able to observe deviations that represent imbalances and thus increase the risk of falling. The platform can also be used to monitor a patient's progress in rehabilitation and therapy by comparing results from individual measurements [3]. The platform is classified as an objective test, and is based on data collected while performing different foot positions in a standing position - changes in the direction of pressure exerted by the feet on the platform surface are then observed. In addition,lower limb loading asymmetry can be determined during the test [1].
Functional tests
Due to the limited availability of posturographic methods, the importance of functional tests is still very high in the assessment of human body imbalance. This type of testing is so optimal that it does not require specialised equipment or an office, hence the possibilities to perform it are wide. Both static and dynamic balance are assessed, and examples of qualitative tests include the Roomberg test [1], which involves holding a standing body position with the legs together for approximately 20-30 seconds. Falling to one side is suggestive of peripheral abnormalities with particular reference to the worsening of symptoms when the eyes are closed. If the patient falls backwards during the test, this suggests central damage. Another qualitative test is the Unterberger test, which is based on walking on the spot with legs raised high for a period of about 40-60 seconds and arms extended in front of the patient. Rotation around one's own axis may indicate unilateral vagus prolapse [4].
Quantitative tests include the Berg balance scale, the Tinetti test, the DGI, the 1-legged standing test or the step test, all of which are based on repetition and thus describe the patient's condition more accurately. Usually, the test is based on the performance of tasks related to activities of daily living - eating, standing up, changing position[1]
