Spinal Cord and Brain Function Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to spinal cord and brain functions, motor disorders, auditory processing, language disorders, and emotional regulation.

Spinal Cord

Structure that relays efferent and afferent information; it mediates reflexes through reflex arcs.

Paraplegia

Loss of movement or sensation in the legs due to spinal cord injury.

Quadriplegia

Loss of movement or sensation in arms and legs due to spinal cord injury.

Myelitis

Inflammation of the spinal cord, caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain that coordinates motor control, balance, and fine motor skills.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Condition resulting from damage to peripheral nerves, often causing weakness and numbness.

Cerebellar Hemispheral Syndrome

A syndrome that affects coordination and balance, typically caused by stroke or tumors.

Thalamus

Relay station for all senses except smell, located above the brainstem.

Basal Ganglia

Group of structures involved in the control of movement and motor planning.

Dyskinesias

Involuntary movements resulting from basal ganglia damage.

Extrapyramidal Motor System

System responsible for involuntary motor control, including balance and posture.

Auditory Processing Disorder

A difficulty in processing auditory information in the brain.

Aphasia

Acquired language disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate; can involve difficulties with speaking, understanding, reading, or writing.

Executive Functions

Cognitive processes that manage other cognitive functions such as memory and attention.

Lability

Involuntary display of emotion due to neuropathology; characterized by sudden outbursts.