Optokinetic Test

An optokinetic test is a method for studying visual functions based on determining the speed and direction of movement of objects. It is used to assess a person's ability to perceive movement and orientation in space.

The essence of the method is that an image of a moving object, for example, a rotating disk or line, is displayed on a monitor or TV screen, and the subject must determine the direction of movement of this object. To do this, he needs to follow the object with his eyes and turn his head in the direction of its movement.

When conducting an optokinetic test, several vision parameters can be determined, such as the speed of perception of movement, the accuracy of determining the direction of movement, the ability to orient in space, etc. These parameters can be used to diagnose various visual impairments and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

An optokinetic test is a method for determining vision using a special rotating flat toy similar to a top, which is tested simultaneously in two people sitting opposite each other at a distance of 50-100 cm from the toy. - Classical testing. Both subjects are placed behind opposite edges of the shield. Inside the shield there is a model of a rotating top. The top rotates evenly (about 30 rpm). Patients take turns determining the direction of movement of the top, first in white, then against a background of colored spots and figures. After three to five sessions, eye pathology is detected in 99.9% of cases. Ocular pathology is detected by the third eye. The organ of vision seems to “stop working”, because eye pathology has two signs - a change in focus and the formation of false images. A person makes mistakes most often in about a quarter of trials. Thus, the average error rate is 25%. - Reconstruction of an ophthalmological clinic in Klin using an example. In 1989, one department conducted a comprehensive examination of people applying for admission to the Klin Institute of Physical Education. Among more than 120 people, only two girls did not pass the first stage - the optokinetic test. Professor M. Ilyinsky also passed the optokinetic test. And although his initial load was 147 points, he completed the test successfully. Professor M. Ilyinsky became as sick with eyes as most of the examined students, but an optokinetic test revealed his normal state.