Utricle

Utricle is a part of the inner ear that is responsible for detecting linear accelerations and head-tilts in the horizontal plane. It is one of the two otolith organs, the other being the saccule. The utricle and the saccule together make up the vestibular system, which contributes to our sense of balance and spatial orientation.

Anatomy

The utricle is a small, fluid-filled sac located in the vestibule of the inner ear. It is approximately 2-3 mm in diameter and is oriented horizontally in the head. The utricle contains a region called the macula, which is covered in hair cells. These hair cells are sensory receptors that detect motion and changes in position.

Function

The primary function of the utricle is to detect linear movements of the head in the horizontal plane, such as when you move your head side to side or forward and backward. It also detects changes in head position relative to gravity, such as when you tilt your head up or down. The hair cells in the utricle respond to these movements by sending signals to the brain, which then interprets these signals as motion.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction of the utricle can lead to a variety of balance disorders, including vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance. These conditions can be caused by damage to the utricle itself, or by problems with the nerves that carry signals from the utricle to the brain. Treatment for these conditions often involves physical therapy to help retrain the brain to interpret signals from the utricle correctly.

See also

• Vestibular system
• Saccule
• Balance disorder
• Vertigo

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