The Effect of Hand Dominance on Results in the Functional Head Impulse Test
Journal of Laryngology and Otology, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1017/s0022215126105258
- Dergi Adı: Journal of Laryngology and Otology
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, MLA - Modern Language Association Database, MLA International Bibliography, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest), Pharma Collection (ProQuest)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Functional Laterality, Handedness, Head Impulse Test (HIT), Reflex, Vestibulo-Ocular
- Hacettepe Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Objective: The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) is essential for maintaining visual stability during head movements. Individual neurophysiological characteristics, such as hand dominance, may influence vestibular responses through hemispheric lateralisation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand dominance on functional VOR performance using theFunctional Head Impulse Test (fHIT). Methods: Fifty-eight healthy volunteers were classified as right/left-handed using the EdinburghHandedness Inventory. fHIT reading scores were obtained during passive rightward and leftward head impulses at acceleration levels of 4000, 5000, 6000°/s². Results: No significant differences were observed between right- and left-handed individuals during rightward head movements. In contrast, during leftward head movements, right-handed individuals demonstrated significantly higher fHIT scores at 4000°/s² and 6000°/s², as well as higher total reading scores. Conclusion: Hand dominance influences functional vestibulo-ocular performance, particularly during leftward head impulses. Considering hand dominance in the interpretation of fHIT results may enhance the accuracy and individualisation of vestibular assessments.