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Updated: May 28, 2026

Measuring the Influence of Magnetic Vestibular Stimulation on Nystagmus, Self-Motion Perception, and Cognitive Performance in a 7T MRT
Published on: March 3, 2023
Neurophysiology: vertigo in MRI machines.
Dominik Straumann1, Christopher J Bockisch
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland. dstraumann@access.uzh.ch
Magnetic fields in MRI scanners can cause vertigo by stimulating inner ear vestibular sensors. This study reveals the Lorentz force is responsible for this sensation during brain imaging.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Vertigo is a common side effect reported by subjects undergoing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
- The precise mechanism causing this sensory experience within the inner ear during MRI has remained unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physical mechanism by which MRI magnetic fields induce vertigo.
- To elucidate the role of the Lorentz force in stimulating vestibular sensors.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the interaction between MRI magnetic fields and charged particles within the inner ear's vestibular system.
- Theoretical modeling of the Lorentz force acting on semicircular canal endolymph flow.
Main Results:
- The study demonstrates that the time-varying magnetic field in MRI machines exerts a Lorentz force on the conductive endolymph fluid within the semicircular canals.
- This induced force directly stimulates the vestibular sensors, leading to the sensation of vertigo.
Conclusions:
- The Lorentz force provides a direct physical explanation for MRI-induced vertigo.
- Understanding this mechanism may inform strategies to mitigate vestibular side effects in neuroimaging studies.
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