The vestibular system is the balance system of the body, located in the inner ear and brain. It helps you know where your head is in space and allows you to stay balanced, stand up straight, navigate a straight path while walking, keep your vision clear while turning quickly, and move around steadily without feeling dizzy.
The vestibular system consists of five sensory end organs in each inner ear, a vestibular nerve that transmits the sensory information, and a network of neurological connections within the brain and brainstem.
Two of the five sensory end organs in the inner ear, called otolith organs, naturally contain calcium carbonate crystals formed during fetal development to accomplish their sensory purpose throughout the lifespan. Three of the five sensory end organs, called semi-circular canals, are not supposed to have any crystals. Patients experience vertigo if crystals get displaced into the semi-circular canals of the inner ear. This causes the most common vestibular problem called BPPV.
The sensory end organs of the vestibular system and the vestibular nerve can be affected by infection, inflammation, medication side effects, autoimmune disease, degeneration from normal aging, and reduced blood flow due to high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, etc. For more information on the function and dysfunction of the vestibular system, click here.
Disclaimer
This blog is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The content and any comments by Dr. Kim Bell, DPT are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The details of any case mentioned in this post represent a typical patient that Dr. Bell might see and do not describe the circumstances of a specific individual.
