The vestibular system is a sensory system that creates the sense of balance and spatial orientation in vertebrates. It is responsible for coordinating movement with balance and is composed of two components: the semicircular canals, which indicate rotational movements, and the otoliths, which indicate linear accelerations. The vestibular system sends signals primarily to the neural structures that control eye movement, which provide the anatomical basis of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, required for clear vision.

Vestibular disorders occur when the vestibular system is damaged by disease or injury, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and trouble with balance. Vestibular symptoms may be difficult to describe, which complicates the diagnostic process. Vestibular testing includes several tests that check how the balance system within the inner ear is working. Vestibular testing can help diagnose conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), labyrinthitis, Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis, and others.

In summary, the vestibular system is responsible for creating the sense of balance and spatial orientation in vertebrates. Vestibular disorders occur when the vestibular system is damaged, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and trouble with balance. Vestibular testing can help diagnose these conditions.