The vestibular system is made up of the vestibular apparatus located in the inner ear and the areas of the brain that process this information. The vestibular system is essential for maintaining balance and gaze stability.

When a part of the vestibular system is affected by a condition or injury, it can cause symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensation), visual disturbance, nausea, motion sensitivity, disequilibrium, and/or imbalance. These symptoms can vary in severity but may be severe and distressing in nature. As such, people with vestibular disorders often avoid activities which they have found to be provocative, leading to a cycle of reduced participation in everyday life. This can affect all aspects of home, work, and social participation, causing reduced independence, changes in mood, and reduced quality of life.