Spinal Cord Tracts: Functions and Pathways

Vocabulary flashcards covering the functions and pathways of ascending and descending spinal cord tracts.

Gracile fasciculus

Fine touch, vibration, proprioception (below T6). Pathway: 1°: DRG → medulla; 2°: medulla → thalamus; 3°: thalamus → S1

Cuneate fasciculus

Fine touch, vibration, proprioception (above T6). Pathway: 1°: DRG → medulla; 2°: medulla → thalamus; 3°: thalamus → S1

Spinothalamic

Pain, temperature, crude touch/pressure. Pathway: 1°: DRG → dorsal horn; 2°: dorsal horn → thalamus; 3°: thalamus → S1

Spinoreticular

Deep/visceral pain; arousal. Pathway: 1°: DRG → dorsal horn; 2°: crosses → reticular formation; 3°: thalamus/cortex

Spinocerebellar (posterior/anterior)

Unconscious proprioception, posture, coordination. Pathway: 1°: DRG → dorsal horn; 2°: to cerebellum

Lateral corticospinal

Fine, precise limb movement. Pathway: Cortex → pyramid decussation → contralateral spinal cord

Anterior corticospinal

Axial/trunk control. Pathway: Cortex → ipsilateral spinal cord → decussates lower

Tectospinal

Reflex head turning toward sights/sounds. Pathway: Tectum (midbrain) → cervical spinal cord

Reticulospinal (lateral/medial)

Posture/balance; descending analgesia. Pathway: Reticular formation → spinal cord

Vestibulospinal (lateral/medial)

Balance; head/righting reflexes. Pathway: Vestibular nuclei → extensor motor pools