Bergen Vestibular Research Group
Interdisciplinary research related to vestibular diseases.
Affiliation
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
- Ø°ù±ð³§³Ü²Ô»å
- Vestibular Migraine (VESTMIG)
- PREVENT
- SuDHO
- Acute Vertigo in Hospital Settings
- LODIP
- Cervicogenic (Neck-Related) Dizziness
- Vestibular Schwannoma
- Vestibular Rehabilitation
- Gait Function
- Space Research
- Motion Sickness
- Long-Term Prognosis
- Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD)
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)
Projects
Ongoing Research Projects
- Vestibular Migraine – VESTMIG
(Link to project webpage will be provided at study initiation) - PREVENT
(Link to project webpage will be provided at study initiation)
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)
Specialist Physiotherapist, Haukeland University Hospital
ENT Consultant, PhD
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