The Importance Of The Vestibular System

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The ability to interpret and differentiate between spatial and temporal qualities of sensory information is known as sensory discrimination. It allows for refined organisation and interpretation of sensory stimuli and contributes to skill development, learning, and play that demands discrete responses (Shaaf et al., 2010:121). The individual is required to interpret the qualities of the sensory information and add meaning to it. By adding meaning to the sensory qualities, perceptions are formed. “In the process of discrimination, the individual has to use past experiences and memories, and form associations about the spatial and temporal qualities of what they are experiencing, and then act on that” (Van Jaarsveld, 2011:9). Problems with discrimination or perception can occur in any sensory system. Children with sensory discrimination difficulties may have no problem with sensory modulation. However, these problems often coexist in children with sensory modulation difficulties (Case-Smith & O'Brien, 2005:379). 6.2.1 Vestibular System 6.2.1.1 Introduction The vestibular system is the primary organiser of sensory information and integrates sensory input at the brain stem level (Ayres, 1979:62). It is the unifying system and forms the basic relationship of an individual to gravity and the physical world. The vestibular receptors are the most sensitive of all the sense organs and all other types of sensations are processed in reference to this basic vestibular information (Ayres, 2005:62). The vestibular system, along with the visual and proprioceptive system, serves three major functions: it provides the unconscious awareness of body position and movement in space, maintains postural control, balance and equilibrium while performi... ... middle of paper ... ... the board in class. According to her teacher, she does not have difficulty with this task, but is slow to complete it as she becomes distracted. 6.2.1.4 Other Factors Affecting the Scores No other factors were found to influence the scores. 6.2.1.5 Conclusion From the information above, it is clear that Kianah does not have a difficulty with processing vestibular input and no vestibular difficulties are present. It is evident from her PRN and SWB score that she is processing vestibular input via the vestibular receptors efficiently. She also demonstrated appropriate performance of the prone extension posture, supine flexion of the neck, postural reactions, cocontraction of the neck, and dissociation of the head from eyes. Her postural tone is also within the typical range. This further confirms that she does not have a difficulty processing vestibular input. #

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