Pinnacle Guru · Published archive
Vestibular sensitivity
Published
The vestibular sense is often called the sense of balance. However, there is much more to the story. In this post you will discover that the vestibular system is essential to support:
Balance
Postural control
Muscle tone
Spatial orientation
Alertness
Eye movements.
The vestibular system itself is located in the part of our inner ear called the vestibule, this is how it gets its name. The vestibule is attached to the cochlea, the part of the inner ear that helps with hearing. Inside the vestibule, there are two organs, the semi-circular canals, and the otoliths. You can follow the arrows on the picture below to see where these are.
Sensitivity to vestibular sensory input:
Avoids playing on swings and slides (either now or when younger)
Seems afraid of riding in elevators or on escalators
Avoid having head tipped back (e.g. washing hair)
Becomes travel sick or dizzy easily
Seeking out vestibular sensory input:
Pursues movement to the point it interferes with daily routines
Rocks in their chair on the floor or while standing
Loves extreme fast moving input e.g. swings / slides / rollercoaster
Rarely get dizzy
Slow response to vestibular sensory input:
Bumps into things
Falls over objects
Loses balance unexpectedly
Poor muscle tone (appears more floppy than others)
#RaiseAgainstAutism
#PinnacleSaysItAll
#PinnacleBloomsNetwork
#1AutismTherapyCentresNetwork
Discuss a useful next step for your child
Speak with Pinnacle about your questions, a child-specific assessment and everyday support.