Which part of the brain controls balance and body position?

It’s easy to take the balance system for granted. Depending on your ability level, you probably don’t think twice about standing upright, walking around, and sitting up straight. But while these processes might seem effortless, the reality is that your brain is constantly working to keep your balance system functioning properly. Your brain is responsible for helping you walk, run, and even stand on one foot. But what part of the brain controls balance?

What Part of the Brain Controls Balance?

Picture your brain like a factory. There are countless little gears, conveyor belts, and workers milling about, each of them serving a unique purpose to keep you moving through the world. And while your balance system engages several parts of your brain, the main part of the brain that controls balance is the cerebellum. Science American explains that the cerebellum – sometimes quaintly known as the “little brain“ – is located at the very back of your skull. The cerebellum controls a number of functions including movement, speech, balance, and posture. But the cerebellum doesn’t work alone. There are several other parts of the brain that also contribute to balance functions, including something known as the vestibular system.

The Basics of the Vestibular System

Think of the vestibular system as a messenger service. Located in the inner ear, the vestibular system provides your brain with information on things like motion, the position of your head, and sudden movements. This helps you maintain your balance by ensuring that your brain processes your body’s position every time it changes. Overall, the vestibular system helps you maintain a sense of equilibrium, preventing falls and dizziness.

How Does the Balance System Work?

Here, we’ll explore a more detailed explanation of how your brain’s balance system works.

The Role of the Temporal Lobe

Have you ever flinched upon hearing a loud noise? You have your temporal lobes to thank. The temporal lobes are located in the cerebrum, and they help process audio and visual stimuli. Your temporal lobe has a direct line to the cerebellum by neural pathways, allowing your brain to process stimuli and react quickly – by jumping away from a loud sound, for example. This is a major factor in maintaining your overall equilibrium, or sense of balance.

The Role of Semicircular Canals

Try moving your head up and down quickly. Did you recover quickly from the sudden movement? Your semicircular canals, located in your inner ear, helped with that. Your semicircular canals contain a fluid known as endolymph. This fluid moves when you move your head, activating the tiny hairs lining the canal and communicating the direction and speed of movement to your brain.

The Role of the Utricle and Saccule

Finally, the utricle and saccule are two vestibular organs that help detect linear movement. These organs, also located in the inner ear, detect when you tilt your head, change your body position, or move forward – like when you’re walking down the sidewalk, for example. Each of these organs contains hair cells, which are covered with a layer of tiny calcium crystals called otoconia. When you tilt your head or move your body, the movement shifts the crystals and causes the hair cells to bend. This, in turn, sends signals to your brain to help you maintain your balance.

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Understanding which part of the brain controls balance is a key part of treating balance-related issues. The balance system is highly complex; fortunately, vestibular experts have a thorough understanding of the system and its unique components.

Do you have questions about balance issues? Are you in need of medical advice and wondering where to turn? Reach out to the professionals at the National Dizzy & Balance Center. We specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders, including concussions and ongoing dizziness. Our talented team members can evaluate the extent of your concussion and design a personalized plan to relieve your symptoms. To learn more about our approach to dizziness management, please contact us online or by phone. Or if you’re ready to get started, schedule your free medical consultation today.