Vestibular hyposensitivity

What is vestibular hyposensitivity
IN BRIEF

Vestibular hyposensitivity is when a person receives less information from their vestibular system. This system is a part of the body that helps maintain balance and know where we are in space. It's responsible for informing us whether we are standing, sitting, or moving. Therefore, balance, standing upright, perceiving, and understanding movements can be more challenging. Autistic people more frequently experience hypersensitivities or hyposensitivities related to their senses, but anyone, even without a specific diagnosis, can also experience this difference.

Definition of vestibular hyposensitivity?

Vestibular hyposensitivity is a decrease in sensitivity of the vestibular system. This system, located in the inner ear, is responsible for the sensation of movement and balance. A person with hyposensitivity may therefore experience balance problems, have difficulty staying upright, or perceiving certain movements.

Going further
WHAT IS VESTIBULAR SYSTEM?

The vestibular system is a part of the body that helps us maintain balance, know where we are in space, and whether we are standing, sitting, or moving.

It's located in the inner ear and consists of three semicircular canals as well as two structures called the utricle and saccule. These canals and structures are filled with a special fluid that moves when we move.

When someone moves, jumps, or spins, the fluid inside these canals and structures also moves. The fluid's movements send signals to the brain to indicate that the body is in motion.

With this information, the brain adjusts balance and posture. For example, if a person tilts their head backward, the fluid in the canals will move and send a signal to their brain, instructing their body to straighten up to maintain balance.

The vestibular system is therefore very important in helping us to remain stable and not fall when moving. It works closely with the eyes and muscles to enable walking, running, jumping and all kinds of movement.

Symptoms of vestibular hyposensitivity

Consequences of vestibular hyposensitivity

The consequences of vestibular hyposensitivity vary greatly from person to person, depending on age, skills, environment and tools available.

What measures should be taken in the event of vestibular hyposensitivity?

It is possible to train the vestibular system to improve the person’s comfort and functionality. Vestibular rehabilitation may resemble that used for vestibular hypersensitivity, but its goal is to make the vestibular system more sensitive and functional.

Sensory-seeking

The brain may try to create sensations when it is not receiving enough input. Vestibular sensory seeking can include spinning around, jumping on a trampoline, deliberately dizzying oneself, or engaging in activities that stimulate the vestibular system, such as swings or merry-go-rounds.

Important

In case of distress, or if the solutions put in place do not work, it is imperative to consult a specialist in sensory hyposensitivities.

Valérie Jessica Laporte

WRITER SPECIALIZING IN AUTISM (FRENCH)