Watch this video with Eran Shiloh, PT, as he reviews the anatomy and orientation of the semicircular canals of the vestibular system on a 3D model.

The semicircular canals are three interconnected tubes in the vestibular system known as the anterior, horizontal and posterior canals. These fluid-filled canals provide sensory information about the direction and speed of rotary head movement.

Other vestibular anatomy terms to know:

Common crus - Shared portion of the anterior and posterior canals

Endolymph - The fluid within the membranous labyrinth of the inner ear including the semicircular canals

Otolith organs - Includes the utricle and sacule, function to sense gravity and linear acceleration

Otoconia - Crystals of calcium carbonate within the otolith organs