The main role of Vestibular System
The vestibular system consists of two structures of the bony labyrinth of the inner ear, the vestibule and the semicircular canals, and the structures of the membranous labyrinth contained within them.
The vestibular system (inner ear balance mechanism) works with the visual system (eyes and the muscles and parts of the brain that work together to let us 'see') to stop objects blurring when the head moves. It also helps us maintain awareness of positioning when, for example, walking, running or riding in a vehicle.
The exercises might include the following:
1. In bed or sitting
A. Eye movements
-Up and down
-From side to side
-Focusing on finger moving from three feet to one foot away from face
B. Head movements
Bending forwards and backwards
1.Turning from side to side
2. Sitting
A.Eye and head movements,
B.Shrug and circle shoulders
C.Bend forward and pick up objects from the ground
D.Bend side to side and pick up objects from the ground
3. Standing
A.Eye, head and shoulder movements,
B.Change from a sitting to a standing -position with eyes open, then closed (please note this isnot advised for the elderly with postural hypertension)
C.Throw a ball from hand to hand above eye level
D.Throw a ball from hand to hand under the knee
E.Change from a sitting to a standing position, turning around in between
4. Moving about
A.Walk up and down a slope
B.Walk up and down steps
C.Throw and catch a ball
D.Any game involving stooping, stretching and aiming (for example, bowling).