Effects of the vestibular system on human development, Part I. Overview of functions and effects of stimulation

Studies concerned with the effects of vestibular stimulation on human development and function are reviewed and some implications for therapy are suggested in this paper. Studies are included that relate to changes in the vestibulo-ocular reflex with age, effects of vestibular stimulation on smiling, crying, general activity, and visual attentiveness of infants; and studies that show that typical sequelae to vestibular stimulation are reduced following long-term stimulation. The importance of reviews of the literature and transference of research results to therapeutic use are stressed, with the implication that vestibular-based therapy will improve as occupational therapists become more aware of related research.