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What Is the Right Cerebellum?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

The right cerebellum is a small portion of the brain that is responsible for controlling much of the movement involving the right side of the body. This differs greatly from most areas of the brain, because the right side of the brain usually controls the left side of the body. The right cerebellum is located at the back of the head, just behind the portion of the brain known as the cerebrum. Some studies indicate a possible link between acquired dyslexia and abnormalities in the right cerebellum. Some medical conditions that may affect the proper functioning of this area of the brain include traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.

Some of the functions of the right cerebellum include coordination of balance, muscle tone, and equilibrium involving the right side of the body. This area of the brain also helps to control voluntary muscle movements. Due to its location, the right cerebellum is naturally more protected from traumatic injury than other areas of the brain, although damage is still possible. Unfortunately, this protection does not extend to natural disease processes such as stroke or multiple sclerosis.

Much of the body's right side movement is controlled by the right cerebellum portion of the brain.
Much of the body's right side movement is controlled by the right cerebellum portion of the brain.

Potential symptoms that may indicate damage to the right cerebellum include slow, uncoordinated movements such as staggering when walking. In order to compensate for this deficiency, the affected person may develop a wider gait than normal, although this may only be noticeable to others. The ability to accurately judge distances or to stop suddenly may be compromised when there is damage to this portion of the brain.

The right cerebellum partly controls fine motor skills.
The right cerebellum partly controls fine motor skills.

Fine motor skills are controlled in part by the right cerebellum. When an injury has occurred, the affected person may begin to have difficulty writing or picking up small objects with the right hand. Mobility may be limited due to a loss of ability to control movement of the right arm or leg. Depending on the cause of the injury, damage to this portion of the brain can be temporary or permanent. It is important to consult a doctor if any potential signs of brain injury are present so that any severe medical issues can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Individuals who have suffered damage to the cerebellum may experience loss of motor control necessary to perform ordinary tasks, such as teeth brushing.
Individuals who have suffered damage to the cerebellum may experience loss of motor control necessary to perform ordinary tasks, such as teeth brushing.

Occasionally, a person is born with abnormalities involving the cerebellum. These congenital issues are usually diagnosed early in life due to the obvious coordination issues that are present. Inherited disorders may also lead to a progressive degeneration of this area of the brain, causing the patient to slowly lose coordination. These conditions rarely respond to any form of treatment, as brain cells are not able to regenerate once they have become damaged.

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    • Much of the body's right side movement is controlled by the right cerebellum portion of the brain.
      By: Andrey Burmakin
      Much of the body's right side movement is controlled by the right cerebellum portion of the brain.
    • The right cerebellum partly controls fine motor skills.
      By: auremar
      The right cerebellum partly controls fine motor skills.
    • Individuals who have suffered damage to the cerebellum may experience loss of motor control necessary to perform ordinary tasks, such as teeth brushing.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Individuals who have suffered damage to the cerebellum may experience loss of motor control necessary to perform ordinary tasks, such as teeth brushing.
    • The right cerebellum is located at the back of the head, just behind the cerebrum.
      By: Balint Radu
      The right cerebellum is located at the back of the head, just behind the cerebrum.
    • Musicians and artists are generalized as right brain thinkers because they prefer creativity.
      By: Christian Kieffer
      Musicians and artists are generalized as right brain thinkers because they prefer creativity.
    • Damage to the right cerebellum may be temporary or permanent.
      By: Verity Johnson
      Damage to the right cerebellum may be temporary or permanent.
    • Multiple sclerosis affects the functioning of the right cerebellum.
      By: designua
      Multiple sclerosis affects the functioning of the right cerebellum.
    • Patients who have had a stroke may require a cane to walk.
      By: praisaeng
      Patients who have had a stroke may require a cane to walk.
    • It is important to consult a doctor if any signs of brain injury are present.
      By: asierromero
      It is important to consult a doctor if any signs of brain injury are present.