Rotary chair testing is used to evaluate the vestibular system, which regulates balance, posture and the body's orientation in space. The vestibular system includes structures of the inner ear, vestibular nerve, brainstem and cerebellum (a region of the brain that integrates sensory perception), coordination, and motor control.
A reflex called the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) allows the eyes and vestibular system to interact, which enables us to see things clearly when moving our heads. Rotary chair testing evaluates this reflex.
The main preparation for a rotary chair test usually involves not taking certain medications that may interfere with the vestibular system for 24 hours before the test. Such medications may include vestibular suppressants such as:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
- Clonazepam (Klonapin)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Meclizine (Antivert, Bonine)
Also inform your doctor of alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco use, as these substances may need to be avoided for several hours before testing. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. Never stop taking any prescribed medication without first talking to your doctor
Other preparation may include:
- Do not use any make-up on the face or eyes, since video goggles will be used for eye tracking
- You may be asked not to eat for several hours before the appointment
What Is the Procedure for a Rotary Chair Test?
For a rotary chair test:
- Patients are seated in a rotational computerized chair positioned in the middle of a small, dark room
- The chair has a seatbelt and security head strap to keep the torso and head in place
- A pair of infrared video goggles that records eye movements during the test is worn
- The patient is alone in the room, but there is a microphone to speak to the audiologist operating the chair and conducting the test
- The test takes about 30 minutes and includes different sub-tests to help determine if the dizziness or imbalance is a result of a vestibular system or central nervous system problem
- The oculomotor test measures eye movements in response to moving lights projected on the wall in front of the patient
- Next is the chair test, in which patients are turned at varying speeds in the rotary chair
- Eye movements are carefully monitored and recorded, specifically measuring the vestibulo-ocular reflex which occurs in response to movement of the chair
- Patients should tell the audiologist if they experience dizziness, nausea, or headache during these tasks
What Happens After a Rotary Chair Test?
Following a rotary chair test:
- It may take a few minutes for the eyes to adjust to light
- Patients may feel unsteady on their feet
- Patients should arrange for transportation because they may feel tired or dizzy after the test
- Migraines may occur the next day in patients prone to migraines
- Medications may be resumed after the test is over
- Preliminary test results will be shared right after the rest, but complete results will be sent to you and your referring doctors in a formal report
From 
Brain and Nervous System Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/rotary-chair-testing
https://dizziness-and-balance.com/testing/ENG/instructions.html