How the Inner Ear Balance System Works - Labyrinth Semicircular Canals

Video describes how the inner ear balance system works. The semicircular canals are shown along with corresponding head movements. PLEASE NOTE that this video is a simplification of what actually happens as well as angles used. For example, the video implies that the posterior semicircular canal is oriented perfectly between the ears and that head tilting ONLY stimulates the posterior canal. That is not technically true. The posterior (and superior) canals are actually angled 45 degrees from that shown in the video. Also the head tilt and nod actually stimulates BOTH these canals. But for the purposes of lay audience education, these complicating details were ignored. Dix-Hallpike maneuver is also shown at the end. For more information about BPPV: Perform Dix-Hallpike to determine what type of BPPV here (the full length video): Check out our online store for other ear/balance related products: