Peripheral Nervous System and Autonomic Nervous System Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the key concepts from the provided lecture notes on the Peripheral Nervous System and Autonomic Nervous System.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system that provides links from and to the external environment, consisting of all neural structures outside the brain.

Sensory Receptors

Specialized structures that respond to changes in the environment (stimuli) and are responsible for sensation and perception.

Mechanoreceptors

Receptors that respond to touch, pressure, vibration, and stretch.

Thermoreceptors

Receptors that are sensitive to changes in temperature.

Photoreceptors

Receptors that respond to light energy, such as those found in the retina.

Nociceptors

Receptors that are sensitive to pain-causing stimuli, such as extreme heat or cold.

Homeostatic Imbalance

A condition where the body fails to maintain stable internal conditions, leading to issues such as chronic pain or hyperalgesia.

Phantom Limb Pain

A sensation of pain in a limb that is not physically present, often experienced post-amputation.

Cranial Nerves

Twelve pairs of nerves associated with the brain, with functions such as sensory, motor, and mixed nerve functions.

Spinal Nerves

31 pairs of mixed nerves that supply all body parts except for the head and part of the neck.

Sympathetic Division

The part of the autonomic nervous system that mobilizes the body during activity, often referred to as the 'fight-or-flight' system.

Parasympathetic Division

The part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes maintenance activities and conserves body energy.

Dual Innervation

A situation where all visceral organs are served by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, often causing opposite effects.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway involved in reflexes, consisting of a stimulus, receptor, sensory neuron, integration center, motor neuron, and effector.