The vestibular system has always fascinated me. I have never stopped marveling at how the elegant, yet supremely efficient design of the vestibular apparatus helps us detect all six components of motion, enabling us to navigate our environment with ease.
The vestibular system is truly our sixth sense. It works quietly in the background to help us maintain our balance. We are unaware of its presence and importance, until something goes wrong and we suffer the debilitating effects vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance. Our worlds are literally turned upside down. It is then we are reminded of this vital sensory system.
Dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance are the second most common complaint in outpatient medical settings. The great news is that most conditions that cause dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance can be treated.