: The vestibular system has traditionally been interpreted within a reflex-based framework, mainly centered on gaze stabilization, vestibulo-ocular reflex pathways, and peripheral vestibular deficits. This model remains essential, but it is insufficient to explain the full spectrum of postural, perceptual, visual-motion, and self-motion complaints observed in contemporary clinical otoneurology....
No actionable change to clinical practice from this narrative review alone; it provides conceptual context for understanding predictive models of vestibular function that may inform future diagnostic frameworks.
Understanding the shift from reflex-based to predictive models of vestibular processing deepens the scientific foundation for interpreting clinical tests and developing next-generation vestibular rehabilitation strategies.
- 01Narrative review covers Kathleen E. Cullen's influential contributions to vestibular (balance system) neuroscience.
- 02Traces the field's evolution from simple reflex models to predictive models of gaze and balance control.
- 03Discusses implications for clinical otoneurology (diagnosis and treatment of inner-ear and nervous system disorders).
- 04No new primary data are presented — this is a conceptual synthesis.
- 05Published in Audiology Research (MDPI).
Vestibular neuroscience has evolved from reflex-based frameworks to predictive models of gaze stabilization and peripheral vestibular function.
opinionsupported- PMID
- 42496262
- DOI
- 10.3390/audiolres16040096.
- Journal
- Audiology Research
- Publication type
- review
- Evidence level
- 5
- Intervention
- Conceptual review of Cullen's vestibular neuroscience research
Primary outcomes
Synthesis of predictive vs. reflex-based vestibular models; Clinical implications for otoneurology