Did you know CT scans are not the best or the only way to diagnose a concussion? Most functional brain injuries from a concussion do not show anything significant with brain imaging technologies such as CT scans. So how do we test for signs and symptoms of concussions? Experts have developed a screening tool called VOMS to do exactly that.
What is The VOMS?
Well, for one, it stands for Vestibular Ocular Motor Screen. It is a screening tool used by trained healthcare professionals to determine the extent of a patient’s concussion symptoms after a head injury.
The VOMS is made up of different tests that work to challenge the visual and vestibular systems of the brain. The results of each test allows clinicians to get a better understanding of the deficits in brain function after a head injury and what is causing concussion symptoms. During the screening, patients may experience a variety of symptoms that can provoked by the testing which helps identify the source of your symptoms. Common symptoms may include headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, brain fog, fatigue and nausea. VOMS can identify potential functional deficits that could be causing issues with balance, eye movements, gaze stability, and visual sensitivity.
Basically, the VOMS is used to confirm the diagnosis of a concussion and guide the rehabilitation process. VOMS is important in order to accurately asses the source of the patients symptoms and how they can be provoked. This is so that you can plan accordingly to ensure the recovery process is effective and you are able to return to normal activities.
Here at the Back in Balance Clinic we are an official Complete Concussion Management™ clinic! If you have experienced a concussion it is best to get things looked at and treated promptly.
Feel free to book an appointment HERE.
