vestibular system
Inner ear equilibrium
The vestibular system is the sensory apparatus in the inner ear that detects motion and spatial orientation, providing the brain with information about balance, head position, and acceleration.
It works with vision and proprioception to keep you upright and coordinated: Motion sickness occurs when the vestibular system conflicts with what the eyes see.
Sensation of spinning
- dizzinessUnsteady, spinning sensation
- nauseaPre-vomiting stomach discomfort
- motion sicknessNausea from perceived movement
- labyrinthitisInner ear canal swelling
State of balance
- proprioceptionBody's spatial self-awareness
- spatial orientationAwareness of position in space
- stabilityResistance to displacement
- gaitLocomotion pattern
coordination · body awareness · center of gravity · motor control · reflexes · sway · steadiness · balance beam
Vestibular gravity sensor
- utricleBalance-sensing ear chamber
- labyrinthIntricate passage network
- cochleaSpiral hearing organ
- ampullaSmall sealed medical container
macula · oval window · cristae
Lower neural trunk
- cerebellumMovement coordination organ
- sensory receptorsCells converting stimuli to signals
- neural pathwaysBrain's communication routes
- motion detectionIdentifying displacement automatically
Diminished reaction over time
- balance trainingExercises improving postural control
- desensitizationReduced response over time
- physical therapyRehabilitative movement-based medical care
- fall preventionSafeguards against losing balance
vertigo
Sensation of spinning
- dizzinessUnsteady, spinning sensation
- nauseaPre-vomiting stomach discomfort
- motion sicknessNausea from perceived movement
labyrinthitis · nystagmus · tinnitus · ataxia · disequilibrium
equilibrium
State of balance
- proprioceptionBody's spatial self-awareness
- spatial orientationAwareness of position in space
- stabilityResistance to displacement
gait · coordination · body awareness · center of gravity · motor control · reflexes · sway · steadiness · balance beam
saccule
Vestibular gravity sensor
ampulla · macula · oval window · cristae
brainstem
Lower neural trunk
- cerebellumMovement coordination organ
- sensory receptorsCells converting stimuli to signals
- neural pathwaysBrain's communication routes
motion detection · acceleration · sensory processing · neuroplasticity
habituation
Diminished reaction over time
- balance trainingExercises improving postural control
- desensitizationReduced response over time
- physical therapyRehabilitative movement-based medical care
vestibular systemvisual system
Organs enabling perception of light
auditory system · vision · hearing · touch · sight