[Neurophysiological bases of vestibular training]

Abstract

Occupation-oriented vestibular selection is based on the two principles: selection of vestibular-resistant subjects, and increase of vestibular tolerance through training. The latter implies inherited ability of the central nervous system to attenuate vestibular reactions. The review surveys experimental data concerning attenuation (habituation) of vestibular reactions as a result of prolonged or reiterative excitation of labyrinthine receptors. The review discusses peculiar features of the development, stability and transfer of habituation. It gives data on disturbed habituation as a result of an exposure to stress-effects (hypokinesia, hypoxia, hypothermia) and certain drugs. The phenomenon of vestibular habituation is interpreted in terms of Sokolov's concept of the stimulus nervous model.