In the Romberg test, what does a positive result indicate?

A positive result in the Romberg test indicates increased loss of balance when the patient is asked to stand with their feet together and eyes closed. This test is primarily used to assess proprioception, which is the body's ability to sense its position in space.

When a person has difficulty maintaining balance in this position, it often suggests an issue with proprioception or the sensory pathways involved in maintaining equilibrium. Normally, the sensory information from the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems works together to keep a person balanced. Closing the eyes removes visual input, making any proprioceptive deficits more apparent. Therefore, if a patient sways or falls while their eyes are closed, it clearly indicates dysfunction in proprioceptive input.

The other options reflect misunderstandings of what the Romberg test assesses. Improved balance would contradict the findings of a positive test, while stating there is no proprioception issue would not align with the result of increased instability. Finally, normal vestibular function would suggest that the body can maintain its balance, which would not be the case with a positive Romberg test outcome.