The cerebellum is situated behind the pons and immediately below the posterior portion of the cerebrum occupying the posterior cranial fossa. It is ovaid in shape and has two hemispheres,separated by a narrow median strip called the vermis. Grey matter forms the surface of the cerebellum,and the white matter lies deeply.
FUNCTIONS.
The cerebellum is concerned with the coordination of voluntary muscular movement,posture and balance. Cerebellar activity is not under voluntary control. The cerebellum controls and coordinates the movements of various groups of muscles ensuring smooth,even,precise actions. It coordinates activities associated with the maintenance of posture,balance and equilibrium. The sensory input for these functions is derived from the muscles and joints,the eyes and the ears. Proprioceptor impulses from the muscles and joints indicate their position in relation to the body as a whole,and those impulses from the eyes and the semicircular canals in the ears provide information about the position of the head in space. Impulses from the cerebellum influence the contraction of skeletal muscle so that balance and posture are maintained.
The cerebellum may also have a role in learning and language processing.
Damage to the cerebellum results in clumsy uncoordinated muscular movement,staggering gait and inability to carry out smooth,steady,precise movements.
