The peripheral nervous system includes the nerves and ganglia that are outside of the central nervous system. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is made up of two divisions: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic system. Each part of this system plays a vital role in how information is communicated throughout the body. Show
This article discusses what the peripheral nervous system is, how it works, and the influence that it has on how the body functions, including what happens when there is a problem affecting the PNS. What Is the Peripheral Nervous System?The nervous system is divided into two parts: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The central nervous system (CNS) includes the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system includes all of the nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord and extend to other parts of the body, including muscles and organs. The primary role of the PNS is to connect the CNS to the organs, limbs, and skin. The nerves of the PNS extend from the central nervous system to the outermost areas of the body. The peripheral system allows the brain and spinal cord to receive and send information to other areas of the body, which allows us to react to stimuli in our environment. The nerves that make up the peripheral nervous system are actually the axons or bundles of axons from nerve cells or neurons. In some cases, these nerves are very small, but some nerve bundles are so large that they can be seen by the human eye. Structures of the Peripheral Nervous SystemThe peripheral nervous system itself is divided into two parts: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system. Each of these components plays a critical role in how the peripheral nervous system operates. The Somatic Nervous SystemThe somatic system is the part of the peripheral nervous system responsible for carrying sensory and motor information to and from the central nervous system. The somatic nervous system derives its name from the Greek word soma, which means "body." The somatic system is responsible for transmitting sensory information as well as for controlling voluntary movement. This system contains two major types of neurons:
The Autonomic Nervous SystemThe autonomic system is the part of the peripheral nervous system that's responsible for regulating involuntary body functions, such as blood flow, heartbeat, digestion, and breathing. In other words, it is the autonomic system that controls aspects of the body that are
usually not under voluntary control. This system allows these functions to take place without needing to consciously think about them happening. The autonomic system is further divided into two branches:
RecapThe PNS is made up of two divisions: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system. The somatic system contains sensory and motor neurons. It sends and receives sensory information and motor signals. The autonomic system is responsible for regulating involuntary body functions. Nerves in the Peripheral Nervous SystemThe PNS is composed of nerves that are responsible for carrying signals between the central nervous system and the parts of the body that lie outside the CNS. This includes information from the senses, organs, and muscles. The axons of these nerve cells are bundled together and can be found throughout the body. Information is received by the dendrites of these cells, the information travels down the axon to the cell body. The message can then be communicated to other cells. The nerves that make up the peripheral nervous system connect with either the spinal cord or brain in order to transmit information to the CNS. Spinal NervesSpinal nerves are responsible for transmitting information from the muscles, organs, and glands to the spinal cord. There are 31 spinal nerves that branch out to different areas of the body from the spinal cord. Cranial NervesThe cranial nerves are responsible for the receptors found in the head and neck area. Instead of connecting with the spinal cord, these nerves travel directly to the brain. There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves that transmit motor and sensory information from areas including the face, mouth, eyes, nose, and ears. RecapThe PNS is made up of cranial nerves that connect directly with the brain and spinal nerves that connect with the spinal cord. Diseases of the Peripheral Nervous System There are a number of diseases and disorders
that can affect the peripheral nervous system. Problems with the sensory and motor neurons in the PNS can result in changes in sensation, muscle weakness, or muscle paralysis. Some of the conditions that can affect the PNS include:
Symptoms of PNS diseases and disorders can include numbness, pain, tingling, burning, sensitivity to touch, and muscle weakness. RecapDisorders, injuries, toxins, and viruses can cause problems with the peripheral nervous system. Such conditions can lead to symptoms related to sensation, muscle strength, and muscle control. Treatment for PNS ConditionsTreatment for peripheral nerve problems depends on the cause and focuses on treating the underlying disorder and offering supportive care. For example, some PNS conditions may be caused by injury while others may be related to underlying health conditions, viruses, toxins, or genetic disorders. In addition to treating conditions that may be causing dysfunction or damage to PNS nerves, treatment may also involve surgery, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, and respiratory support. A Word From Verywell The peripheral nervous system plays a critical role in motor and sensory function. If you are experiencing symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, loss of sensation, or sensitivity, talk to a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Frequently Asked Questions
How are the central and peripheral nervous systems similar?Both central and peripheral nervous systems are the two components of the nervous system of vertebrates. Both nervous systems are involved in responding different environmental stimuli in the environment, maintaining the life. Both nervous systems comprise neurons with the same physiology.
How do the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system work together example?For example, motor neurons (efferent neurons) contact the skeletal muscles to execute the voluntary movement of raising your arm and wiggling your hand about. Peripheral nervous system nerves often extend a great length from the central nervous system to reach the periphery of the body.
How does the peripheral nervous system related to the central nervous system quizlet?The peripheral nervous system, or PNS, consists of the nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and the spinal cord. The main function of the PNS is to connect the central nervous system (CNS) to the limbs and organs. You just studied 2 terms!
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