Vestibular Processing Activities

Your vestibular system, which is located in the sensitive structures of the inner ear, is critical to your sense of balance as you move and interact with the world around you. Dysfunction in vestibular processing can manifest in a variety of ways, including imbalance, dizziness and vertigo, according to the Vestibular Disorders Association. There are, however, some activities that may help to overcome these problems.

Vestibular System

• It is the job of your vestibular system "to keep tabs on the position and motion of your head in space," according to the website of the Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology of Washington University of St. Louis. To do this, the vestibular system must detect angular acceleration or rotational movements, such as occur when you nod or shake your head, and linear acceleration, such as you experience when riding in an elevator. The semicircular canals of the inner ear detect angular acceleration, while the inner ear's urtricle and saccule interpret signals of linear acceleration.

Activities for Young Children

• If your child is having problems with vestibular processing, there are certain activities that can help promote "more coordinated movement, balance, and 'vestibular processing' " according to the Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota. Because movement is a potent sensory input, avoid extremes, such as spinning, which may be more than the child can handle. Recommended activities that include bouncing on a bed, exercise ball, or parent's knee; swings, both infant swings at home and the playground variety; rolling on the floor; car rides; riding on a sled or trike; rocking horse or chair; swinging in a blanket; and somersaults.

Exercises for Adults

• Children are not the only ones who may have problems with vestibular processing. Whether because of injury or the effects of aging, adults often experience difficulties with balance and equilibrium. The Department of Otolaryngology and Communicative Sciences at the University of Mississippi Medical Center suggests activities to help improve vestibular processing abilities.

  The following head exercises can be done in a seated position. Bend your head down to look at floor and then slowly look up to the ceiling. Repeat this exercise 10 times, slowing down if dizziness or feelings of nausea are experienced. The entire 10-repetition activity should be done three times daily. In another exercise, turn your head first to the right and then to the left at a pace rapid enough to generate symptoms. Wait for symptoms to resolve before proceeding. Do 10 repetitions per set and three sets daily.

  Once your sense of balance shows some improvement, try these standing exercises. In a corner, stand heel to toe for at least 30 seconds without touching the wall for support. Do this first with eyes open and then try with eyes closed. Try standing on one foot, but do this only when someone else is present to help if necessary. Also, practice standing while throwing a small rubber ball from hand to hand above eye level.