Your Ear Anatomy Explained

Understanding how the ear works is the first step to understanding your hearing health. The ear is a remarkably complex organ, made up of delicate structures that work together to capture sound and send it to the brain. From the outer ear that gathers sound waves, to the middle ear that amplifies them, and the inner ear that translates them into signals your brain can process, every part plays a vital role. At Brookway Hearing, we believe that knowing more about your ear anatomy can help you better appreciate the importance of protecting and caring for your hearing.
  • Helix: The curved outer rim of the ear.

  • Antihelix: The inner ridge of the ear, running parallel to the helix.

  • Pinna: The visible external part of the ear that collects sound waves.

  • Concha: The hollow next to the ear canal that funnels sound inward.

  • Auditory bulla: A bony structure at the base of the ear that protects middle and inner ear components.

  • Cartilage: Flexible tissue that gives the ear its shape and support.

  • Ear canal: A tube that carries sound waves to the eardrum.

  • Tympanic membrane (eardrum): A thin membrane that vibrates when sound waves strike it.

  • Tympanic cavity: The air-filled space behind the eardrum where the ossicles are located.

  • Malleus (hammer): First of the three tiny middle ear bones; attached to the eardrum.

  • Incus (anvil): Middle bone that passes vibrations from the malleus to the stapes.

  • Stapes (stirrup): Smallest bone in the body; transmits vibrations to the inner ear.

  • Eustachian tube: A canal that connects the middle ear to the throat, helping balance air pressure.

  • Semicircular canals: Loop-shaped structures that control balance and spatial orientation.

  • Cochlea: Spiral-shaped organ that converts sound vibrations into electrical signals.

  • Vestibular nerve: Carries balance information from the semicircular canals to the brain.

  • Cochlear nerve: Transmits hearing information from the cochlea to the brain.

  • Temporal bone: Part of the skull that houses and protects the ear structures.

  • Muscle: Small muscles around the ear that can adjust tension in the ossicles or help with positioning.

Want to Learn More About The Antomy of Your Ear? Click to Watch!

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Ross Pavlik

Hearing Aid Specialist

Ross's academic journey began with an Associate of Science degree, providing him with a robust foundation in scientific principles. His professional path has been shaped by his family's influence, as he's been immersed in the hearing device industry since childhood. Today, Ross stands as a licensed Hearing Aid Specialist in Ohio, a title he's held for nearly three years. He's committed to continuous learning, currently pursuing National Board Certification to further enhance his expertise.

Ross's role as a hearing instrument fitter is not just a job, but a mission. He works tirelessly to improve the lives of his patients by helping them manage their hearing loss effectively. With each fitting, he aims to bridge the communication gap that hearing loss can create, fostering stronger relationships and enhancing overall quality of life.

Outside of being a dispenser for Brookway Hearing, Ross is currently serving as the President of Strongsville Toastmasters, an international organization dedicated to helping members improve their public speaking and leadership skills. Concurrently, he's actively engaged in the Strongsville Men's Hockey League, showcasing his dedication and passion for sports.

P.S. Ross is also a member of the International Hearing Society, an organization that supports hearing healthcare professionals worldwide. This affiliation reflects his commitment to staying updated with the latest industry trends and best practices.

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Robert Pavlik

BC-HIS, ACA, HAS

Meet Robert, the founder of Brookway Hearing Center, is dedicated to enhancing patients' auditory experiences. After honorably serving in the U.S. Air Force, Robert pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology from the University of Akron's College of Health Professions. His comprehensive education equipped him with a deep understanding of the science behind hearing and the art of communication. His studies explored the mechanics of the outer, middle, and inner ear, as well as the complex processes of sound perception and interpretation by the brain.

Robert is Nationally Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences and has earned the Audioprothologist designation from the International Hearing Society. With over 24 years of experience, Robert has been testing, fitting, and dispensing a wide range of hearing devices.

Brookway Hearing Center was established with the strong support of Robert's wife and co-owner, Michelle Pavlik, who played a pivotal role in the office's success.

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