Definition
- Cerebellum acts as the comparator of a servo mechanism: it compares the planned movement from motor cortex with the ongoing performance reported by sensory feedback, and sends a correcting error signal back to the cortex.
- It has three functional divisions, vestibulocerebellum, spinocerebellum and neocerebellum, that work in a coordinated and integrated manner.
Functional Divisions of the Cerebellum
Functional divisions of the cerebellum
Division
Vestibulocerebellum
- Connections
- Reciprocal connections with vestibular nuclei/vestibular apparatus
- Main functions
- Postural balance and equilibrium; vestibulo-ocular reflex; vestibular postural reflexes
Spinocerebellum, vermal part
- Connections
- Proprioceptive/sensory input via spinal cord; projects to brainstem areas for axial and proximal limb muscles
- Main functions
- Control of posture
Spinocerebellum, paravermal part
- Connections
- Projects to brainstem nuclei for distal limb muscles
- Main functions
- Skilled voluntary movements; smoothening and coordination of movement
Neocerebellum (hemispheric part)
- Connections
- Interacts with premotor and sensory cortex
- Main functions
- Planning, programming and timing of sequential movements