Balance Systems

What three sensory systems contribute to balance?

• Somatosensory system

• Visual system

• Vestibular system

What information does the somatosensory system provide for balance?

• Proprioceptive information

• Muscle length

• Muscle tension

• Pressure

• Pain

• Joint position

• Tactile information

Where are somatosensory receptors involved in balance located?

• Joints

• Muscles

• Ligaments

• Skin

How can the somatosensory system be challenged during balance testing?

• Change the support surface

• Stand on foam

• Use uneven surfaces

• Use sloped surfaces

• Alter pressure/vibration input

What information does the visual system provide for balance?

• Verticality

• Motion of objects

• Motion of self

• Environmental orientation

• Postural sway

• Head and neck movement

How can the visual system be challenged during balance testing?

• Compare standing with eyes open vs closed

• Remove visual input

• Assess visual fields

• Assess gaze control

• Assess visual acuity

What information does the vestibular system provide for balance?

• Position of the head

• Movement of the head

• Relationship of the head to gravity

• Acceleration/deceleration

What structures make up the vestibular labyrinth?

• Three semicircular canals

• Two otolith organs

What do the semicircular canals detect?

• Movement of fluid with head motion

• Rotational/angular head movement

What do the otolith organs detect?

• Effects of gravity

• Linear acceleration

• Linear deceleration