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Lemieux / Allenbach-Bellehumeur Audioprosthetists

Balance, a complex function

Three systems within the human body collaborate in order to keep balance

  • The visual system: the eyes send information about the position and the movements of the body. This information is analyzed by the central system, allowing the body to keep up with the action.
  • The proprioceptive system: our whole body is connected to a system that sends information about the position and the actions of the legs, arms, torso… For example, by feeling pressure on the right foot, then on the left, then on the right again, the body knows that it’s walking.
  • The vestibular system: located in the inner ear, this system gives information about the movements and position of the head, as well as accelerations and decelerations. When a patient mentions feeling dizzy, or that the room is spinning, the vestibular system is often involved. The vestibular system is also responsible for the characteristic sensation we get from alcohol consumption.

Ear-related causes

  • Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo
  • Vestibular neuronitis or labyrinthitis
  • Motion sickness
  • Ménière’s disease

Other possible causes of dizziness and balance problems

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Migraines
  • Head or neck trauma
  • Visual issues
  • Multiple sclerosis

What is the solution ?

Our independent audiologists use various tests to evaluate all the systems involved in the function of balance.
With these results, the independent  audiologists can evaluate and treat certain balance issues, and refer to other specialists as needed.

The tests can trigger dizziness. We recommend that patients bring someone along, and that they have a light meal a few hours before their appointment. In some situations, the tests will be completed in more than one appointment.