The Spinal Cord
The spinal cord is a vital, tube-like structure extending from the base of the brain down to the lower back, playing a crucial role in the central nervous system (CNS).
Functions
Message Relay: Transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
Reflexes: Coordinates automatic responses to stimuli, like withdrawing a hand from heat.
Motor Control: Regulates voluntary movements, like walking or writing.
Sensation: Processes sensory information from the body, like touch or pain.
Structure
Vertebral Column: Protective spinal bones (vertebrae) encase the spinal cord.
Spinal Nerves: 31 pairs of nerves emerge from the spinal cord, connecting to the body.
Grey Matter: The inner layer, contains nerve cells (neurons) that process information.
White Matter: Outer layer, composed of nerve fibres (axons) that transmit signals.
Regions
Cervical Spine: Neck region, controls arm and hand movements.
Thoracic Spine: Chest region, that regulates body functions like breathing and digestion.
Lumbar Spine: Lower back region, controls leg movements and bladder function.
Sacrum: Five fused vertebrae at the base of the spine, forms the pelvis.
Interesting Facts
- The spinal cord is about 45 cm long and 1 cm in diameter!
- The spinal cord contains over 100 billion neurons!
- The spinal cord can function independently of the brain in some cases, like reflexes!
- Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or loss of sensation!
Related Simulations
Internal Heart Structure
Heart Beat
