A Normative Study of Rotational Vestibular Testing among U.S. Military Rotary-Wing Aviators
Abstract
The peripheral vestibular system contributes to spatial orientation by providing perception of body movement. Evidence suggests the vestibular function of pilots differs from that of non-pilots. Deficits to the vestibular system can lead to spatial disorientation, which is associated with aviation-related mishaps. However, aviator-specific normative data or criteria for return-to-duty or fitness-for-duty currently does not exist. The current medical recommendation is that pilots who experience vestibular deficits receive a comprehensive evaluation prior to returning to full flight duties. One such test that evaluates the perception of motion and gravity of both the peripheral and central vestibular systems is rotational chair (RC) testing. RC testing measures vestibular sensitivity to motion, vestibule-ocular reflex (VOR) function, and the visual-vestibular interaction using multiple frequencies and test paradigms. The purpose of this study was to create a normative database of vestibular function in U.S. military trained aviators utilizing an RC. Fifty participants completed RC tests that utilized rotation in this study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1077771
Entities
People
- Angela N. Fulbright
- Cierrah M. Azcona
- Lana S. Milam
- Stephanie J. Karch
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab