Neglect in Three Dimensions

Objectives. Neglect in vertical and radial directions is rarely evaluated systematically in patients with brain damage.

Method and Results. Using the line bisection task, we confirmed that some patients with unilateral brain damage manifest vertical or radial spatial neglect. In fact, patients with severe left horizontal neglect tend to have severe vertical neglect.

Conclusion. Because vertical and radial neglect may affect the ability to perform functional daily activities, occupational therapists need to address the existence of vertical and radial neglect when evaluating and training patients with brain damage.