What it means
A check of the body's sense of position (proprioception), named after Moritz Romberg, a German neurologist. With the eyes closed, a person must rely on position sense from the legs and feet. If they sway a lot or lose their balance only once the eyes are closed, the result is called a positive Romberg sign.
For the nurse
Stand close with your arms ready to catch the client without touching them, because they may fall. Record how long they stand and whether they sway.
At a glance
| Also written | Romberg sign, Romberg's sign, Romberg's test, Romberg |
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Related terms
dizziness
A feeling of being lightheaded, unsteady or off balance, or that the room is spinning.
peripheral nervous system
All the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, which link them to the rest of the body.
unsteadiness
A feeling of being off balance or likely to fall while standing or walking.