Gait Testing and posture tests

Question 1

why do these test?

Answer 1

Posture and gait test can be used to supplement
other tests to help identify vestibular and other
pathologies.

Posture test:
1) Romburg test
2) Unterburg test
3) CTSIB

Question 2

What is Romberg/sharpened testing?

Answer 2

This provides an objective measurement of postural stability. This is based on the idea of removing information from a sensory input causing change in posture.

standing still with eyes closed, standing still on one leg which would normally do two

Question 3

Advantages and disadvantages of Romberg/sharpened test

Answer 3

+ Simple non intrusive test
+ Cheap (no equipment required)
+ May give subjective information about difficulties maintaining posture

• Results are subject to variations interpretation
• Limited evidence for diagnosing a vestibular pathology
• Learning effects/r can affect the subject’s ability to perform the test.

Question 4

CTSIB: Clinical test of sensory integration in balance:

Answer 4

Patient completes the test by standing on a cushion/foam with their feet apart (eyes open and then
eyes closed)
- Pass or Fail criteria
- The patient fails the test if they make a corrective movement with their feet in order to stay upright.
- Gives information about which sensory input the patient relies on for good balance.
- Some evidence to show that the test is good for distinguishing between patients with and without
vestibular disorders

Question 5

Unterbergs/ Fukunda Test:

Answer 5

Originally intend as test of vestibular function. The test reflects somatosensory function more than
vestibular function.
- Patient marches on the spot for a set length of time with their eyes closed.
- A specific amount of rotation (varies from 30-60 degrees) is taken to suggest the presence of a
vestibular lesion on that side.
- Poor relationship between side of peripheral vestibular lesion and direction of patient turn.

Patient is standing walking with arms straight out and legs moving up and down, eyes closed. Do it in one direction nd moving to another direction backwards.

Question 6

what is gait testing?

Answer 6

These are test which involve walking (under normal circumstances and under test conditions). It Provides limited information about the pts vestibular function
- Provides significant information regarding the patient.

Question 7

what are the 4 types of gait testing:

Answer 7

Gait testing for vestibular assessment:
- Normal gait
- Tandem gait
- Ambulation with head rotation
- Ambulation with stop and turn

Question 8

tandem stand:

Answer 8

have one leg infant of the other, eyes closed and the patient should be able to stay balanced.