Lateral vestibular nucleus

The lateral vestibular nucleus plays a critical role in maintaining posture and balance. It is one of four nuclei that make up the vestibular nuclear complex, situated beneath the floor of the fourth ventricle (rhomboid fossa) near the junction between the pons and medulla oblongata. Specifically, the lateral vestibular nucleus is located in the uppermost region of the medulla oblongata and extends into the caudal portion of the pons.

The lateral vestibular nucleus primarily gives rise to the lateral vestibulospinal tract, which carries descending fibers to influence motor neurons within the anterior horns of spinal cord, particularly those controlling limb and trunk muscles. This tract is responsible for maintaining upright posture by facilitating extensor muscle tone, crucial for stability during standing and walking.

By processing information about linear acceleration and head position from the utricle and saccule of the inner ear, the lateral vestibular nucleus enables the body to make reflexive postural adjustments to maintain balance and equilibrium during movement.