Explain the interconnection between the visual and kinaesthetic senses in maintaining accurate spatial orientation.
There is a very strong “reflex” inter-connection between the eyes and the balance organs.
This allows visual tracking of surrounding objects even when the head and body are moving around rapidly or unevenly.
Outline the anatomy and physiology of the motion, orientation and gravitational sensory organs, including ...
These are three fluid filled canals mounted at right angles to each other
They sense angular acceleration in three different planes
They sense individual accelerations
Inside each canal is a water-tight swing door that is deflected by the movement of the fluid
This stimulates nerve endings which send info to the brain
If the accelerating force is too low this will not be picked up by the semi-circular canal
Is the sensory system that provides the leading contribution to the sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement with balance.
Define disorientation.
Disorientation is defined as a condition of having lost one’s sense of direction, or being in a state of confusion
Define spatial orientation.
Spatial orientation is defined as our natural ability to maintain our body orientation and/or posture in relation to the surrounding environment (physical space) at rest and during motion
To tell which way is up
Explain the effects of colds; hay fever; and/or allergies on the sinuses and eustachian tubes.
A blockage of the Eustachian tube caused by a cold, sinus infection etc can cause extreme pain and damage / perforate the ear drum
Explain the effects of pressure changes on the middle ear and eustachian tubes.
The air in the middle ear is maintained at ambient pressure via the Eustachian tube mechanism
This connects the interior of the middle ear to the nasal passage and enables equalising to occur when pressure changes occur in a climb or descent
Explain the effects of age induced hearing loss (presbycusis).
Presbycusis is the most common type of hearing loss, caused by the natural aging of the auditory system.
It occurs gradually and initially affects the ability to hear higher pitched (higher frequency) sounds.
Describe methods of protecting hearing.
A good quality headset will prevent noise induced hearing loss
Noise cancelling headsets are best for protecting your hearing
Ear muffs / defenders
Ear plugs
Describe the effect of prolonged noise exposure on hearing.
Prolonged noise exposure can lead to permanent hearing loss
This noise can be as low as 70 – 80 dB
Describe the anatomy and physiology of the ear.
The external ear consists of the earlobe and external canal
The middle ear is made up of the hearing organs and tympanic membrane (eardrum)
The balance organs are in the inner ear and consist of the Semicircular canals and the otolith organ
