How does the vestibulo-ocular reflex stabilize vision during head movements?

The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) stabilizes vision by generating compensatory eye movements that counter the rotation of the head, ensuring that the image remains stationary on the retina.1

This process relies on the semicircular canals located in the inner ear, which act as rotary accelerometers. When the head rotates, fluid within these canals moves and deflects the cupula, a structure containing sensitive hair cells. This movement triggers nerve impulses that travel through the brainstem to the oculomotor nuclei, which control the eye muscles.123

The muscles respond by rotating the eyes in the opposite direction of the head movement at an equal speed. For example, a rightward head rotation results in an equal leftward rotation of the eyes, effectively maintaining a fixed gaze. The VOR is particularly effective for compensating for fast head movements, while the optokinetic reflex assists in stabilizing vision during slower movements.1