Cerebellar Dysfunction

Cerebellar disorders produce ataxia that is characterized by incoordination of extremities and/or trunk, balance and gait disturbances, dysarthria, and eye movement abnormalities. Clinical manifestations of cerebellar dysfunction are not always restricted to ataxic motor syndromes. Prompt and early recognition of the cerebellar manifestations of the disease may help in diagnosis, appropriate medical, surgical, or interventional treatment, and effective neurorehabilitation to minimize disability. This chapter gives a comprehensive view of the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the cerebellum, theories regarding cerebellar function, clinical manifestations, and medical management. In addition to the above, the chapter also provides a detailed view of physiotherapy management, including the exercises to improve posture, balance, and dysmetria.