Sensory Systems
Sensory systems work together to process information from our environment for the response. This is most often reacted to without using conscious thought or planning, for example, blinking at bright light or stepping back from a perceived danger. There are sensory receptors all over the body for different sensory systems. When sensory systems are not processing information effectively, this can lead to a range of problems impacting daily life including spatial awareness, poor balance, and ongoing misinterpretation of sensory information can lead to a dysregulated state, anxiety and physical health problems.
See below for more detail on each system.
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Detects light, objects, movements. The visual system enables the interpretation and analysis of information received. This allows the understanding and recognition of what we see and thus respond to it.
The visual system works alongside the vestibular and auditory system to enable us to navigate our environment effectively, to read, tend personal care and tend needs, also to perceive possible threats.
This systems is located in the cochlear, within the inner ear. It is the body’s tool for maintaining balance, enabling spatial awareness and ability to coordinate the eyes with head movement, for example to see clearly whilst walking hence the link between vestibular and visual sensory systems. This system allows the detection of movement, speed of movement and type of movement.
An example where you may have encountered a misinterpretation between your visual and vestibular system, when sitting in a stationary train and another stationary train alongside begins to move, causing a brief period where you may feel like you have moved.
It is effectively what keeps us upright, balanced, able to move without stumbling, to read without falling over or off a chair and whole multitude of activities required for effective daily functioning.
Without a well-functioning vestibular system, a person may experience dizziness, vertigo, affect balance and ability to walk straight and induce nausea. It would also cause blurred vision and fatigue and ultimately impact ability to lead a fulfilled life and be safe in your surroundings. Other factors such as memory and concentration are also impacted due to the cognitive fatigue caused by the additional energy being used to regulate the vestibular system and support vestibular sensory input.