Purpose:
The Romberg test is designed to assess proprioception, which is the sense of body position in space. Proprioception relies on the dorsal columns of the spinal cord to transmit information about the position of joints and muscles to the brain.
Procedure:
1. Ask the subject to stand with their feet together (touching each other), arms at their sides, and eyes open.
2. Observe the subject for about 30 seconds with their eyes open. Note any swaying or imbalance.
3. Ask the subject to close their eyes while maintaining the same stance. Again, observe them for about 30 seconds.
4. Note any increased swaying, instability, or if the patient starts to fall.
Negative romberg test (Normal result):
1. The patient can maintain their balance with their both eyes open & closed without significant swaying or falling.
2. Interpretation- Proprioception is intact and dorsal columns are functioning properly.
Positive romberg test (Abnormal result):
1. The patient sways or falls when their both eyes are closed.
2. Indicates a problem with proprioception, usually due to dorsal column dysfunction in the spinal cord.
3. Conditions Indicated by a Positive Romberg Sign:
a. Tabes dorsalis (a form of neurosyphilis)
b. Vitamin B12 deficiency
c. Multiple sclerosis
d. Other conditions affecting the dorsal columns
NOTE: Dorsal column of spinal cord consist of two main tracts-
1. Fasciculus Gracilis (Tract of goll): Carries information from the lower half of the body.
2. Fasciculus Cuneatus (Tract of burdach): Carries information from the upper half of the body.
