Chapter 13 Learning Objectives: the Spinal Cord and Spinal Nerves

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Review the structure of the vertebrae and associated connective tissue, and how they protect the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Describe the characteristics and purpose of the three layers, spaces, and attachments of the meningeal structures. Describe the external features of the spinal cord and nerves, and discuss its relative length within the vertebral column during development. Explain why/where a spinal tap occurs. Describe the features of the spinal nerves as they emerge from the vertebral column. Describe the anatomical position of gray and white matter within a cross section of the spinal cord, and their relationships with the spinal nerves and tracts leading to/from the brain. List the functions of the spinal cord. Identify the names of sensory and motor tracts based on description of the tract and identify the description of the tracts based on the name of the tract. Define reflex and distinguish between autonomic and somatic reflexes. Explain the purpose and stimulus of the stretch reflex. Explain the purpose and stimulus of the tendon reflex.

7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

12. Explain the purpose and stimulus of the flexor and crossed extensor reflexes. 13. Discuss the naming and numbering of the spinal nerves, the arrangement of the spinal nerves relative to the vertebrae, and the attachment of the spinal nerves to the spinal cord. 14. Describe the connective tissue coverings of the spinal cord.

15. Discuss the branching of the spinal nerves once they emerge from the vertebral column.

16. Define plexus, then describe the spinal root origins, interconnections, and names of major nerves of the cervical, brachial, lumbar, and sacral plexuses according to their anatomical destinations. 17. Describe the spinal root origins and destinations of the intercostal nerves.