Bergen Vestibular Research Group
Interdisciplinary research related to vestibular diseases.
About the research group
The Bergen Vestibular Research Group is a clinically integrated research group comprising healthcare professionals who routinely examine and treat patients with dizziness and balance disorders. The group has a particular focus on disorders of the balance organs of the inner ear (the vestibular system).
The group’s primary objective is to conduct high-quality clinical research that contributes to improved interdisciplinary management of patients with vestibular and balance disorders. This work is carried out in close collaboration with leading national and international research institutions within the field.
Research Dissemination and Knowledge Translation
A key priority of the research group is the active dissemination and implementation of research findings. Results are communicated through peer‑reviewed scientific publications, contributions to national and international conferences, educational activities, and popular science communication aimed at patients, healthcare professionals, and the wider public.
Research Areas
- ØreSund is a Nordic collaborative project co-funded by the European Union (EU Interreg) and the university hospitals in Bergen, Skåne and Zealand. The aim of the project is to improve the diagnosis and rehabilitation of patients with dizziness. The project is based on the so-called Bergen Model, developed at Haukeland University Hospital.
- LODIP (Long-term Dizziness in Primary Care) is a randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of a treatment combining vestibular rehabilitation and cognitive therapy for patients with chronic dizziness in primary care. Data collection has been completed, and the project is in its final phase.
- Vestibular Schwannoma: This study investigates the level of agreement among clinicians when interpreting a clinical test in patients with vestibular schwannoma (a benign tumour of the vestibular nerve).
- Gait Function: A study using motion sensors to investigate whether patients with dizziness move their heads differently from healthy individuals.
- Long-term Prognosis of Dizziness: A study examining factors that predict dizziness over time in patients referred for dizziness assessment.
- PPPD: Patients with Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) experience a substantial impact on their daily lives due to their symptoms. We aim to investigate whether patients improve over time.
Ongoing Research Projects
- Vestibular Migraine (VESTMIG): VESTMIG is a study investigating whether treatment with a migraine medication (eptinezumab) can reduce symptoms in patients experiencing dizziness attacks caused by migraine (vestibular migraine). The study has received funding from Helse Vest RHF and is currently in the planning phase. More information will be provided at a later stage.
- PREVENT ("Nordic PREdnisolon for VEstibular NeuriTis Study") is a blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized trial that will investigate the effect of prednisolone treatment for vestibular neuritis (viral inflammation of the vestibular nerve), one of the most common causes of acute dizziness. The study is coordinated from Umeå, and 22 hospitals across Sweden, Denmark, and Norway are participating. More information will be provided at a later stage.
- SuDHO: This sub-study investigates balance function in patients with sudden unexplained hearing loss. It is part of a larger multicentre study evaluating the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjunct to standard treatment for sudden unexplained hearing loss.
Scientific Focus Areas
Diagnostics and Disease Mechanisms
Development and validation of methods for early and accurate diagnosis, alongside increased understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying dizziness and balance disorders.
Treatment and Intervention
Development and scientific evaluation of pharmacological, technological, and rehabilitation-based interventions aimed at improving clinical outcomes and quality of care for patients with vestibular disorders.
Capacity Building and Collaboration
The research group serves as a platform for research training at both master’s and doctoral levels. It maintains close collaboration with national and international academic and clinical partners to promote knowledge exchange, researcher mobility, and joint research initiatives.
History
The research group originated from the Balance Laboratory at Haukeland University Hospital, established in 2001 by Professor Otto Inge Molvær and Stein Helge Glad Nordahl.
Since its inception, the group has evolved into a nationally leading research environment in vestibular diagnostics, treatment, and research. The group has contributed to more than twenty doctoral theses and maintains a strong record of scientific publications.
Milestones
- 2001: Establishment of the Balance Laboratory as the National Competence Center for Vestibular Disorders
- 2011: Reorganization into the National Competence Service for Vestibular Disorders
- 2023: Further development into the National Quality and Competence Network for Vestibular Disorders (NKKVS)
People
Group manager
Frederik Kragerud Goplen Senior Consultant and surgeon (ENT), Professor II, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen
Group members
Stein Helge Glad Nordahl ENT specialist, Professor II, Department of Clinical Medicine , University of Bergen
Kathrin Skorpa Nilsen Senior Consultant (ENT)
Lene Kristiansen Specialist Physiotherapist, Haukeland University Hospital
Jan Erik Berge ENT Consultant, PhD
Mari Kalland Knapstad Associate Professor in the Bachelor’s Programme in Physiotherapy at HVL, Physiotherapist and Researcher at Haukeland University Hospital
Vegard Løvby Solhaug Specialist Physiotherapist, Haukeland University Hospital
Ingelin Økland Helland Nurse, ENT Outpatient Clinic, Haukeland University Hospital, and Coordinator, NKKVS