BIOS 252 Week 3 Online Lab; Nervous System Lab Report

Natasha Ngong Chamberlain University College of Nursing BIOS 252: Anatomy and Physiology II Professor Horn July 28, 2024 Week 3: Nervous System Lab Report Describe the anatomy of the spinal cord by completing the following chart: (3 points) # of associated segments/spinal nerve pairs Spinal cord The spinal cord is divided into several regions, each with a specific number of associated segments and spinal nerve pairs. (31) Cervical region (C1-C8): This region consists of eight segments and corresponding spinal nerve pairs. These nerves are primarily responsible for sensory and motor functions in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. (8) Thoracic region (T1-T12): Comprising twelve segments, the thoracic region's nerves serve the chest and abdominal muscles. Each thoracic nerve corresponds to a thoracic vertebra and plays a role in movements and sensations of the upper back, chest, and parts of the abdomen. (12) Lumbar region (L1-L5): The lumbar region includes five segments and their respective spinal nerve pairs. These nerves innervate the lower back and parts of the lower extremities, contributing to movements and sensations in the legs and feet. (5) Sacral region (S1-S5): This region also consists of five segments. Sacral nerves are involved in motor and sensory functions of the pelvis, buttocks, genitals, and parts of the legs and feet. (5) Coccygeal (Co1): The coccygeal region contains only one segment and its associated nerve pair. The coccygeal nerve innervates the skin over the coccyx (tailbone) and contributes to sensations in that area. (1) Define the following terms: (1 point each) Cauda equina: the cauda equina is a bundle of spinal nerves and rootlets, resembling a horse's tail, located at the lower end of the spinal cord. It innervates (supplies) the pelvic organs and lower limbs, providing them with motor and sensory functions. Conus medullaris: The conus medullaris is the lower end of the spinal cord, typically ending at the L1 or L2 vertebra in adults and it contains the terminal spinal cord segments, including sacral and coccygeal segments, forming the cauda equina. Reflex: A reflex is an automatic, quick reaction to a stimulus that occurs without conscious thought, and they are usually protective mechanisms designate