Vestibular system
Vestibular System
The Vestibular System (pronunciation: ves-ti-bu-lar sys-tem) is a complex set of structures located in the inner ear that provides the leading contribution to the sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement with balance.
Etymology
The term "vestibular" comes from the Latin word "vestibulum," which means entrance. This is in reference to the system's location in the inner ear, which is often considered the "entrance" to the auditory and balance systems of the body.
Function
The vestibular system works with the visual system to keep objects in focus when the head is moving. It also works with the musculoskeletal system to maintain balance. The system accomplishes these tasks through a complex series of sensory inputs, central processing, and motor outputs.
Components
The vestibular system is composed of two main components: the semicircular canals, which detect rotational movements; and the otolith organs, which detect linear accelerations. The system also includes the vestibular nerve, which carries information from the inner ear to the brain.
Related Terms
- Semicircular canals
- Otolith organs
- Vestibular nerve
- Inner ear
- Visual system
- Musculoskeletal system
- Balance
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vestibular system
- Wikipedia's article - Vestibular system
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