The modified VOMS test is a quick, free screening tool that checks how your eyes and inner ear are working after a concussion. It helps doctors diagnose concussions more efficiently while maintaining accuracy.
Concussions affect millions of people worldwide each year, including 1.6 to 3.8 million sports-related concussions in the United States. Doctors diagnose concussions based on your history, a physical exam focused on concussion symptoms, and special tests when needed.
One useful tool for evaluating concussions is called the Vestibular/Ocular-Motor Screening, or VOMS. This test checks whether your inner ear (vestibular system) and eye movements (oculomotor function) are working properly after a head injury.
The VOMS is a free, quick assessment that doctors can use with minimal training. It includes nine different tasks that check your eye movements and balance-related symptoms. During the test, you'll report your symptoms before and after each task on a scale from 0 to 10 across four categories: headache, nausea, fogginess, and dizziness.
The test helps doctors see whether specific eye or balance activities make your symptoms worse. This information is valuable in determining whether you've had a concussion.
Research shows that doctors can get the same accurate results using just four of the nine VOMS tasks instead of all nine. These four tasks are: smooth pursuits (following a moving object with your eyes), horizontal saccades (quick eye movements side to side), horizontal VOR (eye movements that keep your vision steady when you turn your head), and visual motion sensitivity (how your eyes respond to moving scenes).
This shortened version, called the modified VOMS or mVOMS, saves time during your evaluation while still being just as accurate at identifying concussion. Doctors can use it both in the office and on the sidelines during sports.
Your doctor will look at the total score from the symptom severity ratings. Research shows that a score of 4 or higher on the mVOMS is most helpful in identifying a concussion. This approach is more accurate than looking at each individual task separately.
The mVOMS works especially well when paired with other concussion evaluation tools, such as balance testing and cognitive (thinking) assessments. Together, these tests give your doctor a complete picture of your concussion status.
See a doctor right away if you've experienced a head injury during sports or other activities and have any of these symptoms: headache, dizziness, fogginess, nausea, confusion, balance problems, sensitivity to light or noise, memory or concentration difficulties, or mood changes. A healthcare provider can perform proper testing, including the VOMS test if needed, to evaluate whether you have a concussion. Do not return to sports or strenuous activity until a doctor has cleared you—returning too soon can be dangerous.
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