After a mild car accident, Joel had a hard time walking in a straight line. He also began struggling with tasks like buttoning his shirt, writing, and feeding himself (often bumping his cheek or chin with his spoon). All his extremities were unharmed, and the doctors believed he had a minor brain injury. Based on this description, what structure of the hindbrain may have been damaged?

• A. Pons.
• B. Medulla.
• C. Reticular Formation.
• D. Cerebellum.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the role of the cerebellum in the brain. The cerebellum is primarily responsible for coordinating voluntary movements, balance, and motor skills.
2. Consider the symptoms Joel is experiencing: difficulty walking in a straight line, trouble with fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt, and challenges with coordination while feeding himself.
3. Relate these symptoms to the functions of the cerebellum. The cerebellum helps in maintaining balance and coordination, which aligns with Joel's difficulties in walking and performing precise movements.
4. Evaluate why other structures of the hindbrain, such as the pons, medulla, and reticular formation, are less likely to be involved. The pons is involved in relaying signals and sleep regulation, the medulla controls autonomic functions, and the reticular formation is involved in arousal and consciousness.
5. Conclude that the cerebellum is the most likely structure affected, as it directly relates to the coordination and motor control issues Joel is experiencing.