Vestibular system physiology slides.pptx

Vestibular system physiology

1. Physiology of the Vestibular System Educational Presentation for Students

2. Introduction The vestibular system is responsible for balance, spatial orientation, and coordinating eye movements.

3. Anatomy Key structures: semicircular canals, otolith organs (utricle & saccule), and vestibular nerve.

4. Semicircular Canals Detect rotational movements through endolymph fluid and hair cell activation.

5. Otolith Organs Detect linear acceleration and head position relative to gravity using otoconia.

6. Vestibular Pathways Signals travel via the vestibular nerve to the brainstem, cerebellum, and cortex for processing.

7. Role in Balance Coordinates with vision and proprioception to maintain posture and prevent falls.

8. Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex (VOR) Maintains stable vision during head movements by adjusting eye position.

9. Disorders Damage to the vestibular system can cause vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance.

10. Summary The vestibular system plays a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium and spatial orientation.