![]() Prior to a detailed discussion of anatomy and physiology, it is important for the reader to have a fundamental understanding of the basic terminology used to describe the location and orientation of anatomic structures. The anatomy and physiology of the auditory system is discussed first, followed by a brief overview of the vestibular system. Therefore, it is safe to say that understanding disorders of the auditory and vestibular systems is an essential skill for the audiologist and hearing care professional that is dependent on a substantial knowledge of the structure and function of these two interrelated systems.Īlthough the authors can only provide an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the auditory and vestibular systems within this chapter, it is hoped that the reader will be oriented well enough to fully grasp the essence of the function and dysfunction of these two systems. This in turn provides insight as to the nature of the disorder that can lead to effective treatment. An appreciation and understanding of the anatomy and physiology of these systems allows one to identify the location of the disordered region within the auditory and vestibular systems. It also is critical for advances in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the auditory system and any comorbid or related vestibular problems. Understanding the structure and function of the peripheral and central components of these two systems is the goal of both basic and clinical research. ![]() Similar to the auditory system, the vestibular system has both peripheral as well as central components that work together to help us maintain our sense of balance. The vestibular system, which shares some anatomic structures with the auditory system, is responsible for our ability to perceive changes in head movements (acceleration and deceleration) and the orientation of the head with respect to gravity. These hearing skills, which we all take for granted, are a result of the ear (peripheral system) and the brain (central system) working together harmoniously with great precision. Even more amazing is the fact that the normal human auditory system can detect sounds embedded in noise and process what someone is saying from across the room at large social gatherings (i.e., the cocktail party effect). ![]() We can also discriminate small changes in intensity (on the order of 1 dB) and frequency (on the order of a few hertz). As humans, we can hear an extremely wide range of frequencies and intensities. Hearing is a complex process that is critical to our everyday functioning. Structure and Function of the Auditory and Vestibular Systems
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