The first test

Your first test, step by step

You meet one physical therapist for about an hour and a quarter. This is what happens, in order.

01
Step 1: We hear when it happens
When the dizziness comes, how long it lasts, what sets it off and what you were doing the first time. Bring your list of medicines and anything your doctor has found.
02
Step 2: We watch your eyes
You follow a target and look between two points while we watch how your eyes move and settle. Some people wear light video goggles so we can see the eyes in the dark.
03
Step 3: We move your head and body
You turn your head, lie back and sit up in set positions. This can bring the dizziness on for a moment, which is part of what we are looking for. Say stop and we stop.
04
Step 4: We test your balance
You stand on the floor and then on foam, with your eyes open and then closed, and you walk with turns. A therapist stays beside you the whole time.
05
Step 5: We explain what we found
In plain words, with what it means for your week. You practice the first exercises with us, and with your say-so we write to your doctor.

Chest pain, trouble breathing, a sudden severe headache or pain, new weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or a fall with a head injury needs emergency care now. Call 911.

What to wear and bring

Wear
Clothes you can move in and flat shoes that stay on. No heels or slippers.
Bring
Your list of medicines, your glasses, and anything your doctor has found or sent.
Plan the ride
If you can, bring someone to drive you home. Some people feel tired or unsteady afterward.

The whole plan
We agree on the first weeks and review as we go. The plan changes when you do.
Anything you are not ready for
You can say no, or not yet, to any test or exercise.
The cause
We test how your balance system works. Finding what is behind dizziness is your doctor's work.

Call the front desk or book a time. We call back on the next working day.