Insomnia Information on Spinal Nerves and Autonomic Nervous System

Flashcards covering key concepts related to spinal nerves and the autonomic nervous system.

Central Nervous System

Consists of the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and transmitting information.

Peripheral Nervous System

Connects the central nervous system to the rest of the body, facilitating communication with the external environment.

Spinal Cord

The elongated part of the central nervous system extending from the foramen magnum to the region between T12 and L1.

Cauda Equina

A bundle of spinal nerves and spinal nerve roots located below the end of the spinal cord.

Filum Terminale

A fibrous extension from the conus medullaris that anchors the spinal cord to the coccyx.

Epidural Space

The space between the dura mater and the vertebral wall, filled with adipose tissue and blood vessels.

Subarachnoid Space

The space between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater, containing cerebrospinal fluid.

Somatic Nervous System

The part of the peripheral nervous system associated with voluntary control of body movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Controls involuntary bodily functions and is divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

Plexus

A network of nerves that interconnects spinal nerves, allowing for complex signals and responses.

Sensory Neurons

Nerve cells that transmit sensory information from receptors to the central nervous system.

Motor Neurons

Nerve cells that transmit signals from the central nervous system to muscles, causing movement.

Nociceptors

Sensory receptors responsible for detecting pain stimuli.

Chemoreceptors

Receptors that respond to chemical stimuli in the body, such as changes in blood composition.

Proprioceptors

Sensory receptors that provide information about body position and movement.

Spinal Nerve

Peripheral nerves that emerge from the spinal cord, carrying both sensory and motor information.

Cervical Plexus

A network of nerves formed by the upper cervical spinal nerves, serving the neck and diaphragm.

Brachial Plexus

A network of nerves formed by the lower cervical and upper thoracic spinal nerves, innervating the arm.

Lumbar Plexus

A network of nerves formed by the lumbar spinal nerves, serving the lower abdomen and legs.

Sacral Plexus

A network of nerves formed by the sacral spinal nerves, innervating the pelvis and lower limbs.