What is the Romberg test?
The Romberg test, also known as the Romberg sign or Romberg maneuver, is a common neurological test used in ENT and neurological fields to diagnose disorders related to loss of balance and motor coordination (ataxia). This test should only be performed and evaluated by a medical professional.
Vertigo, dizziness and difficulty in coordinating movements and maintaining balance can be symptoms of various pathologies, among these:
- Disorders of the vestibular system, such as labyrinthitis, Ménière's disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo;
- Pathologies affecting the central nervous system, migraines, neuropathies, neoplasms, strokes and cerebellar ataxias.
Why and when is the Romberg test performed?
Each person should be able to maintain balance thanks to two of the following senses:
- Proprioception (perception of the position that one's body occupies in space)
- Vestibular function (being able to recognize the position that one's head has in space)
- Vision
If this does not happen, there is a problem, and the Romberg test is suggested. It is mainly performed in the case of:
- Vertigo
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Signs of intoxication
- Imbalance
- Uncoordinated movement
- Head injury
- Ataxia (impaired muscle control)
These can all be symptoms of potential neurological conditions assessed and confirmed with the Romberg Test, including, but not limited to:
- Ménière’s disease
- Cerebellar dysfunctions
- Parkinson’s disease
- Pathologies of the inner ear
- Central nervous system disorders
