Nerve root

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Nerve Root

The nerve root (pronunciation: /nɜːrv ruːt/) is a crucial component of the nervous system that branches off from the spinal cord and communicates signals between the spinal cord and the rest of the body.

Etymology

The term "nerve root" is derived from the Latin words "nervus" meaning "nerve" and "radix" meaning "root".

Definition

A nerve root is the initial segment of a nerve leaving the central nervous system. Types of nerve roots include sensory nerve roots (also known as dorsal nerve roots) and motor nerve roots (also known as ventral nerve roots).

Function

Nerve roots serve as the communication pathways between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Sensory nerve roots carry sensory information from the body to the spinal cord, while motor nerve roots transmit motor signals from the spinal cord to the muscles.

Related Terms

  • Spinal Cord: The main pathway for information connecting the brain and peripheral nervous system.
  • Central Nervous System: The part of the nervous system consisting primarily of the brain and spinal cord.
  • Peripheral Nervous System: The part of the nervous system that consists of the nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord.
  • Sensory Nerve: A nerve that carries sensory information toward the central nervous system.
  • Motor Nerve: A nerve carrying impulses from the brain or spinal cord to a muscle or gland.

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