Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP)

Computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) is an established test of postural stability. While ENG and rotation testing assess visual-vestibular interactions, CDP provides information about motor control or balance function under varying environmental conditions.

The ability to maintain balance depends not only on vision and the vestibular system, but also on information that the brain receives from the muscles and joints which provide clues such as the direction of head turn and the texture and slope of the walking surface.

CDP tests the relationships among all balance system components--eyes, somatosensory system, and vestibular system. It measures the person's response to environments in which the amount of reliable information from the eyes and somatosensory system is varied.

The test involves standing on a platform, typically with some form of visual target to watch. The platform and/or the visual target move while pressure gauges under the platform record shifts in body weight (body sway) as the person being tested maintains balance. (A safety harness is worn to prevent falling during the test.)

Posturography gives information about how well balance is maintained during challenging situations. It can help doctors plan other vestibular testing, as well as assist in treatment design.