Spinal Nerves, Dermatomes, and Myotomes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to spinal nerves, dermatomes, and myotomes, which are essential for understanding the functions and clinical significance of these anatomical concepts.

Dermatome

An area of skin innervated by the sensory neurons from a single spinal segment or single spinal nerve.

Myotome

A collection of muscle fibers innervated by the motor neurons from a single spinal segment or nerve.

Innervation

The supply of nerves to a specific body part.

Somatic

Relating to the body, especially as distinct from the mind.

Cervical Nerves

8 pairs of spinal nerves (C1-C8) that emerge from the cervical region of the spinal cord.

Thoracic Nerves

12 pairs of spinal nerves (T1-T12) that emerge from the thoracic region of the spinal cord.

Lumbar Nerves

5 pairs of spinal nerves (L1-L5) that emerge from the lumbar region of the spinal cord.

Sacral Nerves

5 pairs of spinal nerves (S1-S5) that emerge from the sacral region of the spinal cord.

Coccygeal Nerve

1 pair of spinal nerves (Co1) that emerge from the coccygeal region of the spinal cord.

Neurological deficits

Loss of normal functions due to damage to the nervous system, affecting sensory and motor abilities.

Tendon reflex

Involuntary muscle contraction in response to stretching of the muscle.