Vestibular Anatomy and Physiology

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Video Runtime: 58 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 19 Minutes

This course will include instruction in anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system. Completion of this course is highly recommended prior to completion of other MedBridge vestibular course offerings. The course content promotes improved understanding of common complaints associated with vestibular disorders, along with enhanced understanding of the rationales for vestibular examination and treatment procedures. The course will review detailed sensory functions of the semicircular canals and otolithic organs. Dark cell and otoconia structure and function will be reviewed, which is essential to understanding benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Motor functions of the vestibular system will also be reviewed, including their critical contribution to gaze stabilization and postural control. The course is appropriate for audiologists and occupational/physical therapists and assistants.

Meet your instructor

Jeff Walter

Jeff Walter is the director of the Otolaryngology Vestibular and Balance Center at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania. His clinical practice focuses on vestibular diagnostic testing and vestibular rehabilitation. He is an assistant professor of physical therapy in the Neuroscience Institute at Geisinger…

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Chapters & learning objectives

1. Semicircular Canals

Content will focus on semicircular canal anatomy and physiology critical to management of vestibular disorders. Instruction will emphasize labyrinthine/canal spatial orientation and cupula-related mechanics, which is particularly helpful for management of BPPV and other vestibular-related disorders.

2. Otolithic Organs, Otoconia, and Dark Cells

Instruction will emphasize otolithic organ structure and function, which is critical to management of vestibular disorders. Instruction will include a special emphasis on otoconia and dark cells, which are important for understanding risk factors for BPPV.

3. Motor Functions of the Vestibular System

Instruction will focus on motor functions of the vestibular system, including gaze stability and postural control. Instruction will emphasize specific features of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, which is critical in the differential diagnoses of vestibular disorders. This chapter will also review the role of the vestibular system in postural control.

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