Balance System The balance system integrates three main inputs:
- Visual
- Proprioceptive
- Vestibular
Vestibular System
-
Semicircular Canals: Detect angular movements via hair cells and the gelatinous cupula.
(hair cell ►gelatinous cupula ► sheared (angular movements ) ►vestibular nerve .) -
Utricle and Saccule: Detect linear acceleration and gravity via hair cells and the otoconial membrane.
(= hair cell ► otoconial membrane (macula) ► (linear acceleration & pull of the gravity) ► vestibular nerve )
Major Connections of the Vestibular System
- Spinal cord
- Cerebellum
- External ocular muscles