Sacral nerves
Sacral nerves
The sacral nerves (pronunciation: /ˈseɪkrəl nɜːrvz/) are a group of nerves that emerge from the sacral region of the spinal cord. They are part of the peripheral nervous system and play a crucial role in transmitting signals between the spinal cord and the lower part of the body.
Etymology
The term "sacral" is derived from the Latin word "sacrum", which means "sacred". This is because the sacrum was considered sacred by the ancient Romans. The term "nerve" comes from the Latin "nervus", meaning "sinew or tendon".
Anatomy
The sacral nerves consist of five pairs of spinal nerves, labelled S1 to S5. These nerves emerge from the sacral region of the spinal cord, which is located in the lower back. The sacral nerves are responsible for innervating the pelvic organs and lower limbs.
Function
The sacral nerves play a crucial role in the functioning of the lower part of the body. They transmit signals between the spinal cord and the muscles and skin of the pelvis, buttocks, genitals, thighs, calves, and feet. They also play a role in the functioning of the bladder and bowel.
Related terms
- Spinal cord: The spinal cord is a long, thin, tubular structure made up of nervous tissue, which extends from the medulla oblongata in the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column.
- Peripheral nervous system: The peripheral nervous system is the part of the nervous system that consists of the nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord.
- Innervation: Innervation is the supply of nerves to a particular body part.
- Pelvic organs: The pelvic organs include the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sacral nerves
- Wikipedia's article - Sacral nerves
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