Affiliations: Otolaryngology and Physical Therapy Department, Northwestern University, 645 N. Michigan, Suite 410, Chicago, IL, USA. E-mail: t-hain@northwestern.edu | [x] Department of Otolaryngology, Spatial Orientation Center, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA | [y] Departments of Otolaryngology, Neurobiology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh 107 Eye and Ear Institute 203 Lothrop Street Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Abstract: The vestibular system is a sophisticated human control system. Accurate processing of sensory input about rapid head and postural motion is critical. Not surprisingly, the body uses multiple, partially redundant sensory inputs and motor outputs, combined with a very competent central repair capability. The system as a whole can adapt to substantial peripheral vestibular dysfunction. The Achilles' heel of the vestibular system is a relative inability to repair central vestibular dysfunction.
