FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-65/24

Title and Subtitle: Adaptation to vestibular disorientation. II. Nystagmus and vertigo following high-velocity angular accelerations.

Report Date: September 1965

Authors: Collins WE.

Abstract: Professional figure skaters who, as part of their daily routine, subject themselves to high levels of disorientation-and vertigo-producing stimuli, were given a series of laboratory tests consisting primarily of caloric irrigations and mild angular accelerations. Electronystamographic recordings and subjective reports (turning sensations and vertigo) were obtained.

Contrary to other reports, brisk vestibular responses were obtained, prompting an 'on-ice' study employing telemetry of eye movements to an ENG recorder and motion pictures. Data were obtained during and following normal high-velocity spins on ice. In the absence of opportunities for visual fixation, vigorous nystagmus and disorientation occurred. Thus, even with highly trained subjects, vestibular stimulation can produce disorientation when visual cues are not present.

Key Words: vestibular apparatus, adaptation (physiology), vertigo, acceleration, velocity, spinning (motion), rotation, eye, motion, vision, semicircular canals, stimulation (physiology), telemeter systems.

No. of Pages: 10