The elements that make up the Peripheral Nervous System (Sistema Nervoso Periférico) are as follows:
1. Nervos cranianos e nervos espinais: Cranial nerves originate from the brain and control functions related to the head and neck. Spinal nerves arise from the spinal cord and are responsible for transmitting sensory and motor information to and from the rest of the body.
2. Plexo braquial e plexo lombossacral: These are networks of nerves that supply the upper (brachial plexus) and lower (lumbosacral plexus) limbs, respectively. They are crucial for the movement and sensation in the arms, hands, legs, and feet.
3. Medula espinhal e cauda equina: The spinal cord (medula espinhal) is a long, tubular structure that extends from the brainstem down the spinal column. The cauda equina is a bundle of spinal nerves that extend beyond the spinal cord. Together, they play a vital role in transmitting messages between the brain and the body.
4. Sistema Nervoso Autônomo: The Autonomic Nervous System controls involuntary functions of the body, such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. It is further divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which work in opposition to regulate the body's responses to different situations.
Each of these components plays a crucial role in coordinating communication between the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the peripheral organs, muscles, skin, glands, and viscera.
