Extraocular muscle function

Alternative names:

EOM; extraocular movement

How the test is performed:

You are asked to sit or stand with your head erect and a forward gaze. Your health care provider will hold a pen or other object 12 inches in front of your face. Without moving your head, the examiner will move the object from a center point in space out to the periphery at the following angles and ask you to follow without moving your head: 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 135 degrees, 180 degrees, 225 degrees, 270 degrees, 315 degrees, and 360 degrees.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the test will feel:

The test involves only normal movement of the eyes.

Why the test is performed:

This test is performed to evaluate any weakness or other defect in the extraocular muscles which results in nystagmus.