What Really Happens During a Vestibular Balance Test?
Franklin, Tenn. – September 07, 2026 -- Adults struggling with dizziness, unsteadiness, or unexplained falls can get answers through a vestibular evaluation, a noninvasive test that usually takes less than an hour to complete. Dr. Elizabeth Welch, an audiologist based in Franklin, Tennessee, breaks down what the process involves in a new HelloNation feature aimed at easing patient anxiety before testing.
The vestibular system sits in the inner ear and helps the brain interpret movement and body position. When it malfunctions, people can experience dizziness, imbalance, or nausea. Testing is designed to pinpoint exactly where that breakdown is happening.
The evaluation starts with a medical history and hearing check.
Clinicians first review past injuries, medications, and existing conditions that might explain dizziness. A hearing assessment often follows, since hearing loss and balance issues frequently overlap in the same patients.