Vestibular input is our body’s internal GPS and balance monitor. The vestibular system is located in our inner ear and sends information to our brain such as movement, balance, head position, speed and direction, and gravity.
The vestibular system allows us to walk without falling over, keep our eyes focused while moving, and feel oriented in space. It plays a huge role in coordination, posture, attention, and emotional regulation.
Not everyone processes vestibular input the same way. Some people’s nervous system responds too strongly while others may respond too weakly. This is known as hyperactive and hypoactive processing.
Hyperactive is when the vestibular system over-responds to movement and movement can feel overwhelming or threatening. Common signs include getting dizzy, dislikes spinning or swinging, fear of heights, anxiety when feet are off the ground, or motion sickness.
What can help:
– Slow, predictable movement (slow linear movements on a swing)
– Gradual and controlled exposure to movement
Hypoactive is when the vestibular system under-responds to movement and the brain doesn’t get enough input, so the body seeks more. Common signs include loving to spin or swing, rarely getting dizzy, constantly moving, and poor balance.
What can help:
– Frequent movement breaks
– -jumping, climbing, spinning or dancing
– -sports
– Obstacle courses
– Fast, intense motion throughout the dayare difficult due to distress over touch, reach out to schedule a pediatric occupational therapy evaluation.