The effect of an interval fatigue protocol on Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS) performance

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a fatigue protocol on Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS) performance. Design: Within subjects, repeated measures, crossover. Methods: Fifteen healthy, physically-active participants (22.20 +/- 1.424 years) completed 2 sessions under 2 conditions. A pretest VOMS, condition protocol, and a posttest VOMSwere performed. The control condition consisted of rest, while the experimental consisted of a fatigue protocol. Results: The primary outcome measures were VOMS performance scores and Near Point of Convergence (NPC) measurements. Statistically significant interaction effects for NPC, F(1,14) = 9.38, p = .008, and total VOMS score, F(1,14) = 10.96, p = .005 were observed. For NPC, posttest (9.12 +/- 4.99 cm) was significantly different, t(14) = -2.60, p = .021, than pretest scores (7.12 +/- 3.19 cm). For total VOMS score, posttest experimental scores (4.93 +/- 5.12) were significantly different, t(14) = -3.06, p = .009, than pretest severity scores (1.73 +/- 3.67). Conclusions: Significant increases were found in total VOMS and NPC scores following exertional fatigue. Exertional fatigue affects symptoms associated with vestibular, and/or ocular motor system assessments. Clinicians should use the VOMS with caution immediately following activity and allow time for recovery from acute fatigue.