Current concepts of the vestibular system reviewed: 2. Visual/vestibular interaction and spatial orientation

Am J Occup Ther. 1989 May;43(5):331-8. doi: 10.5014/ajot.43.5.331.

Abstract

The vestibular system contributes to the generation of conjugate eye movements, spatial orientation, and postural control. The functional connections of the vestibular end-organs and of the descending vestibulospinal pathways and their importance to postural control were reviewed in the previous paper by Keshner and Cohen (pp. 320-330). This paper reviews the ascending vestibular pathways, the visual/vestibular interactions, and the role of the vestibular system in oculomotor control and spatial orientation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Eye Movements
  • Humans
  • Neural Pathways / physiology
  • Posture
  • Reflex, Vestibulo-Ocular*
  • Vestibular Nerve / physiology
  • Visual Perception / physiology*