View source for Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex

== Introduction ==
The position of the head in space and quick changes in the direction of head movement are sensed accurately by the [[Vestibular System|vestibular system]].  When the head is in motion or while walking on the streets, we are able to see the surrounding clearly. The Vestibuloocular reflex (VOR) very well contributes to the maintenance of clear vision. When we move our head to the sides, to maintain a clear vision the eyeballs don’t move along with the head but moves towards the opposite side. These movements of the eyeballs help to fix the gaze on the object and thus we see it clearly<ref>Herdman SJ, Clendaniel RA. Vestibular Rehabilitation, 4th Edition. Philadelphia.FA DavisCompany, 2014</ref>.

The VOR is one of the reflexes of the vestibular system. Others are Vestibulospinal reflex (VSR) and Vestibulocollic Reflex (VCR). The VOR generates eye movements that enable clear vision while the head is in motion. The VCR acts on the neck musculature to stabilize the head. The VSR generates compensatory body movement to maintain head and postural stability and thereby prevent falls<ref name=":1">Anne Shumway C, Marjorie H. Motor Control. Fourth edition. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams&Wilkins 2012</ref>

Abnormalities of the vestibular system result in sensations of dizziness or unsteadiness, which do reach our awareness, as well as problems with focusing our eyes and keeping our balance.