Spinal cord anatomy

The vertebral column supports movement and body weight while protecting the spinal cord. Individual vertebrae connect through ligaments and cushioning discs. Cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions form the column.

The spinal cord carries nerve messages and coordinates reflexes through segmental nerve connections. Protective membranes surround the nerve tissue. Each spinal segment gives rise to paired spinal nerves serving different parts of the body.

Neurons transmit signals within networks connecting the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. Sensory pathways carry information toward the central nervous system, while motor pathways carry commands toward muscles. Reflex circuits can coordinate automatic responses without conscious direction. The brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system. Nerves outside them form the peripheral nervous system, linking central processing with sensation, movement, and internal body functions.