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VNG Testing Vertigo Therapy Chicago

Dec 29, 2025

Therapist guiding patient through vestibular rehabilitation and vertigo physical therapy River Forest

VNG Testing and Vertigo Treatment in Chicago: A Path to Balance

Dizziness is not just a symptom; it is a disruption of your world. When the room spins or you feel unsteady on your feet, your confidence, independence, and daily life suffer. At CNS Brain Center, located conveniently in River Forest, IL, we understand that treating dizziness requires more than guesswork—it requires precise data. That is why we utilize the Videonystagmography (VNG) test as the gold standard for diagnosing the root cause of balance disorders. By combining advanced diagnostics with personalized vertigo physical therapy, we help patients regain their footing and their freedom. If you are searching for a "dizziness clinic Chicago," you have found a partner dedicated to your neurological health.

Understanding the VNG Test: The Science of Sight and Balance

The inner ear (vestibular system) and the eyes share a deeply interconnected neural pathway known as the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). This reflex allows you to keep your eyes focused on an object even while your head is moving. When this system malfunctions, the result is often vertigo, nausea, or disequilibrium.

Videonystagmography (VNG) is a non-invasive, specialized technology that measures involuntary eye movements—called nystagmus—to assess the health of your inner ear and central motor functions.

Unlike basic hearing tests or physical exams, VNG provides a window into the brain’s ability to process balance. During the evaluation at our River Forest office, you wear specialized goggles equipped with infrared cameras. These cameras record eye movements in darkness and light, providing our clinicians with hard data regarding whether your dizziness is stemming from the inner ear (peripheral) or the brain (central).

Note: VNG is widely considered the most accurate method for diagnosing the source of dizziness, differentiating between Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, and vestibular neuritis.

What to Expect During Your VNG Assessment

Many patients searching for "VNG testing near me" are often anxious about the procedure. At CNS Brain Center, we prioritize your comfort. The test generally consists of four distinct parts:

  1. Ocular Mobility (Tracking): You will watch a moving light on a bar. We measure how well your eyes can track targets, which assesses central brain function.
  2. Optokinetic Nystagmus: You will view a large, continuously moving visual image to test your brain’s ability to process complex movement.
  3. Positional Nystagmus: The clinician will move your head and body into various positions to see if the change in orientation triggers dizziness. This is critical for identifying BPPV (ear crystals).
  4. Caloric Testing: Warm and cool air (or water) is introduced to each ear canal. This stimulates the inner ear and allows us to test the vestibular response of each ear independently.

From Diagnosis to Recovery: Vertigo Physical Therapy in River Forest

The true power of the VNG test lies in what we do with the results. A diagnosis is only the first step; the solution is vestibular rehabilitation.

At our River Forest location, we do not believe in "cookie-cutter" therapy. The data gathered from your VNG test dictates the specific blueprint of your physical therapy plan.

  • If the VNG shows BPPV: We utilize Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers (such as the Epley maneuver) to guide displaced crystals back to their correct chamber in the inner ear.
  • If the VNG shows Vestibular Hypofunction: This means one ear is "weaker" than the other. We design Gaze Stabilization Exercises to retrain the brain to rely on the stronger signal or compensate for the weakness.
  • If the VNG shows Central Processing Issues: We focus on Habituation Exercises, exposing you to controlled movements to reduce the brain's sensitivity to motion.

Why Precision Matters in Treating Balance Disorders

The brain is highly neuroplastic, meaning it has the ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. However, for neuroplasticity to work in your favor, the therapy must be targeted.

Without VNG data, physical therapy for dizziness can be a shot in the dark. You might be treated for an inner ear crystal problem when you actually have a central processing issue. This leads to wasted time and prolonged suffering. By utilizing VNG, CNS Brain Center ensures that your vertigo physical therapy is scientifically accurate from Day One.

The Benefits of Choosing CNS Brain Center in River Forest

When you choose CNS Brain Center for your dizziness clinic Chicago needs, you are choosing a comprehensive approach.

  • Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools often found only in large research hospitals.
  • Integrated Care: We bridge the gap between neurology and physical therapy, ensuring seamless communication between your diagnostic team and your rehab therapists.
  • Local Accessibility: Located in River Forest, we serve the greater Chicago area, providing top-tier neurological care without the hassle of downtown congestion.

Taking the Next Step Toward Stability

Living with a balance disorder can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with chronic dizziness, migraines, or the aftermath of a concussion, the path to recovery starts with accurate testing.

Don't let vertigo dictate your life any longer. Trust the science of VNG testing and the expertise of our vestibular rehabilitation team to help you find your center again.

Conclusion

Your balance is vital to your overall health and well-being. If you are ready to stop the spinning and start living, contact CNS Brain Center today. Visit our VNG Testing page to learn more or schedule your consultation at our River Forest clinic. Let’s get you back on your feet, safely and confidently.

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