How do objective vestibular tests document concussion and dizziness injuries in personal injury cases?

What objective findings can a vestibular evaluation provide?

• Positional nystagmus patterns consistent with BPPV, by canal and side¹
• BioSway sway measures across the modified CTSIB and limits of stability
• Eye movement findings: pursuits, saccades, convergence and the vestibulo-ocular reflex
• Cervical range of motion and joint position error
• Standardized symptom and disability questionnaires

How is progress documented over time?

Testing at the initial evaluation is repeated at re-evaluations, so reports show change: improvement with treatment, a plateau or ongoing deficits. That gives physicians a clear basis for further care and gives case managers a consistent record, in line with concussion rehabilitation guidelines that call for measuring each affected system².

How do referrals from attorneys and case managers work?

Attorneys and case managers can fax referrals to 866-851-2493 or download our referral pad. We accept Letters of Protection, Auto MedPay and Workers' Compensation, schedule urgent appointments within 48 hours and release records promptly with the patient's written authorization. Reports describe clinical findings objectively.

Which areas do you serve for personal injury referrals?

We see injured patients at our Cumming and Alpharetta clinics from across North Atlanta, including Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Suwanee, Duluth and Forsyth County. Learn more on our auto accident and personal injury and referral pages.

Where can I get help in Alpharetta, Cumming and nearby?

Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPS and our team of physical therapists see patients from Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, Suwanee, Sugar Hill, Buford, Duluth and Forsyth County at two North Atlanta clinics. Every visit is 60 minutes, one-on-one, and urgent appointments are available within 48 hours. We are in-network with Traditional Medicare, BCBS / Anthem and Tricare, and offer a $129 rate per visit for self-pay and out-of-network plans. Not sure where to start? Take the free symptom self-check, or visit our Alpharetta clinic or Cumming clinic page.

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References

1. von Brevern M, et al. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: Diagnostic criteria. Journal of Vestibular Research. 2015.
2. Quatman-Yates CC, et al. Physical Therapy Evaluation and Treatment After Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2020.

Answered by Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPSDoctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Vestibular Specialist and one of the few certified Therapeutic Pain Specialists in North Atlanta, with 15+ years of outpatient care. About Dr. Patel

This answer is general education, not a diagnosis or a substitute for an examination. If you have new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. Call 911 for sudden severe dizziness with trouble speaking, weakness, numbness, double vision or a severe headache.