We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is the Posterior Cerebellum?

By R. Bargar
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 10,965
Share

The posterior cerebellum, the largest lobe of the cerebellum, is the portion located below the primary fissure in this part of the brain. It is the most recently evolved part of the cerebellum, found only in mammals. In humans, it is located at the bottom of the cerebellum, near the medulla and spinal cord. The primary function of this lobe of the brain is fine tuning movements. Also referred to as the neocerebellum, this area plays a role in planning and executing movement in coordination with other areas of the brain.

As with other parts of the cerebellum, most activity in the posterior cerebellum is believed to occur without conscious thought. It has long been known as the area of the brain that controls the amount of force, the direction, and other intricacies of movement. A loop of neural connections between this lobe of the brain and the cerebral cortex regulate movement, maintaining its precision. Information from the eyes, ears and muscles is received in a part of the posterior cerebellum, helping with coordination. This information lets the posterior cerebellum coordinate movements to changing conditions, allowing quick responses.

In addition to controlling the fine aspects of movement, this lobe of the brain also initiates and stops the movement. This timing of movement gives mammals more precision during important activities such as hunting or evading predators. The posterior cerebellum is also intimately involved in learning new movements and perfecting them. Whether it is a baby learning to walk or an athlete practicing a new maneuver, this part of the brain is essential in perfecting new motor skills.

Damage to the posterior cerebellum may result in a lack of coordination. The movement may be badly timed, directed, or have irregular rhythm. Involuntary movements may increase, as this lobe of the brain also prevents unnecessary movements. Injuries, strokes or diseases affecting the posterior cerebellum may result in a loss of balance and the inability to remain stationary and steady. A person suffering from cerebellum damage may appear drunk.

Through studying the effects of damage to or abnormalities in the cerebellum, researchers have learned more about the functions of this part of the brain. They believe the posterior cerebellum may be active in some cognitive and behavioral functions. Cognitive functions such as working memory, the ability to recall words, and planning are impaired when the this part of the brain is damaged. Studies have found that some patients with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have smaller than normal posterior cerebellums, possibly indicating a broader role for this lobe of the brain in cognition and behavior.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-the-posterior-cerebellum.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.