Abstract
Accurate evaluation of vertical semicircular canal (SCC) function remains a critical gap in vestibular diagnostics. This dissertation presents an integrated and automated rotational testing platform that delivers precise, repeatable stimuli for assessment of all six SCC planes. Here, we designed, validated, and acquired preliminary normative data for a rotational testing paradigm consisting of the vertical computerized rotational head impulse test (crHIT-Vertical), the sinusoidal harmonic acceleration test (vSHA), and the velocity-step (vVST) test. crHIT-Vertical yielded higher VOR gains with <5% of values falling outside normative limits compared to 35% in for standard vHIT, with significantly reduced variability and asymmetry across all canals. vSHA testing at 0.08, 0.16, and 0.64 Hz produced VOR gains that increased proportionately with chair velocity and showed consistent gain-phase relationships across canal planes (p < 0.05). vVST revealed shorter time constants and smaller gains in vertical versus horizontal planes, with no correlation to vHIT metrics regardless of acceleration or deceleration. Together, these protocols establish a unified, frequency-dependent framework for precise evaluation of both vertical and horizontal SCC function, directly addressing longstanding diagnostic limitations in vestibular care.