Your physical therapist will use various tests to measure your vestibular function.
One test often used in vestibular physical therapy is the Vestibular Ocular Motor Screen (VOMS).
This test can pinpoint what is causing problems after a concussion.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
It may also help you predict your level of dizziness after a concussion.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
What Is Vestibular Therapy?
It is performed by a vestibular therapist.
Your doctor can assess your condition and get you started on the right treatment.
A scale of zero (no symptoms) to 10 (severe symptoms) is used.
Smooth Pursuits
To perform this test, you should be seated in front of your physical therapist.
The therapist holds up a finger or pencil about three feet from your eyes.
The pencil is then moved right and left about one and a half feet in each direction.
Your eyes should follow the pencil tip as it moves side to side while you keep your head still.
Two repetitions are performed left and right.
Your eyes should follow the pencil tip while you keep your head still.
Saccades
Saccades are rapid eye movements.
To test this in the VOMS, you and your therapist will be seated across from one another.
Your therapist will hold up two fingers about three feet from your eyes and spread apart three feet.
You will then move your eyes between the two fingers as quickly as possible for 10 repetitions.
The test will be repeated with your therapist holding their two fingers up and down.
Convergence
To perform this test, your therapist will sit in front of you.
A finger is held up about arms length from your nose.
The distance of the finger from your nose is then measured, and your symptoms are recorded.
An abnormal test is considered when double vision occurs greater than six centimeters from your nose.
A metronome should be used to keep the beat of your head turning.
Record your symptom response.
The VOR test is then repeated in the up and down direction, and symptom response is recorded.
Record the maximum metronome speed as well.
Visual Motion Sensitivity
This test is performed in the standing position with your feet shoulder width apart.
Clasp your hands in front of you and raise your thumbs up.
Keep your eyes on your thumbs; you should see the room swooshing by as you turn.
Record your symptom response as well on a scale of zero to 10.
Then, treatment can be tailored to improve upon those impairments.
One test that your therapist may perform is the Vestibular Ocular Motor Screen.
This simple exam can determine the severity of your problem and can guide your rehab sessions.
That way, it’s possible for you to quickly and safely return to your previous level of function.
Dont give up hope!
Your doctor should be able to recommend other options to ease your symptoms.
2020;32(4):331-337. doi:10.1097/PEP.0000000000000729
