Positive Head Impulse Test (bilaterally)

The Head Impulse Test (HIT) or Head Thrust Test offers information regarding how well the vestibular ocular reflex (VOR) compensates for a change in head position. If the patient has normal vestibular responses to the movement, they should be able to maintain their gaze on the Clinician’s nose. If there is considerable vestibular loss, the patient’s eyes will move with the head initially, and make a corrective saccade back to the target. This patient is an example of a positive test bilaterally. This test is a fast and useful way to assess vestibular function bedside in addition to a battery of other tests. Dr. Danielle Tate, PT