Medical evolution is advancing and becoming increasingly effective in treatment. Technology for detecting body abnormalities is also very important because it facilitates treatment, provides faster results, and is more accurate than previous treatments. Some innovations can perform multiple functions, serving both as tools for symptom assessment and as tools to help patients practice and rehabilitate their bodies.
Dr. Donjit Taweechotphat, an otorhinolaryngology specialist at the Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic, Phyathai 2 Hospital, provided details about the CDP or Computerized Dynamic Posturography device, explaining that it is a computer-operated balance measurement device with two main purposes: to examine and assess abnormalities in the body’s balance system and posture, and to assist in training or rehabilitating certain organs related to balance.
In terms of assessment, normal human balance involves the visual system, the body’s sensory system such as joints and foot contact surfaces, and the balance system from the inner ear. The device can assess all these systems using computer technology. It includes equipment that simulates various scenarios to measure where the patient has balance problems so that doctors can address those specific issues. For example, when a patient stands on the device, it presents different test scenarios. The patient may be asked to stand still, then stand with eyes closed to eliminate visual input and observe if other systems can compensate for balance. In another scenario, the platform the patient stands on may move, or the visual surroundings may shift to evaluate which areas the patient has difficulty with.
Additionally, the device can assess the autonomic nervous system. For instance, when a person stands and the floor moves, the autonomic nervous system helps maintain balance. However, some people, such as the elderly or those with certain chronic diseases, may have issues with this system, causing instability when the floor moves or when walking on uneven surfaces. The device can identify specific problems, such as weak leg muscles, poor joint function, or uneven support from both legs.
In terms of training or rehabilitation, the device includes programs for patients to rehabilitate their balance system. It customizes exercises for each patient, which may involve physical exercises or games. For example, if a patient has leg muscle problems, additional equipment and programs are available to strengthen the affected muscles.
Therefore, the CDP device can be used to assess various diseases and symptoms, including chronic dizziness that does not fully respond to medication, elderly patients with multiple chronic conditions who are at risk of falling, people who feel unsteady or stagger while walking, and Parkinson’s patients with tremors and unstable standing.
The CDP device resembles a small room just large enough for one patient. It has harnesses to support the patient to prevent falls or accidents during testing. A doctor or technician controls the computer from outside the room (or a balance physical therapist may directly control the program alongside the doctor). Each test scenario is repeated about three times to ensure accurate results. The device calculates and compares the results with normal values for the general population, adjusted for age groups. Before testing, patient information such as age, gender, and chronic diseases is entered. The results are presented as numbers and graphs indicating whether each balance system point is normal or abnormal. The device also has software for regular upgrades to keep it up to date.
Dr. Donjit spoke about the effectiveness of the CDP device, saying “It is considered very good and can be used for many diseases. Before this device, tests were done through physical and neurological examinations, which were effective, but this device can provide numerical values that serve as clear medical evidence confirming the patient’s specific problems.”
After patients undergo balance system or autonomic nervous system assessment with the CDP device, doctors will know the next steps in treatment. This may include training, muscle exercises, or referral to relevant specialists for further treatment, making the treatment process more systematic, clear, and accurate.
