What primarily affects the function of the VOR during waking hours?

The function of the Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex (VOR) is primarily influenced by dynamic head movements. The VOR is an important mechanism that stabilizes gaze by producing eye movements that counteract head motion, allowing for clear vision during movement. When the head moves, the vestibular system detects this motion and sends signals to the eye muscles to maintain focus on a target.

Dynamic head movements create a need for the VOR to engage actively in reacting to changes in head position and speed. This involves coordinating both the vestibular input and ocular response, which are essential for maintaining visual stability and preventing blurriness during activities such as walking or running.

While static head position, inactivity, and external distractions can influence how the VOR is perceived or its effectiveness in certain situations, they do not directly affect the reflex's function as dynamically as actual head movements do. Therefore, understanding the impact of dynamic head movements on the VOR underscores its critical role in everyday visual and vestibular functioning.