Lateral corticospinal tracts

Lateral Corticospinal Tracts

The Lateral Corticospinal Tracts are a group of nerve fibers that play a crucial role in the motor function of the body. These tracts are responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles, allowing for voluntary movement.

Anatomy

The Lateral Corticospinal Tracts originate from the primary motor cortex, which is located in the precentral gyrus of the frontal lobe. The fibers then descend through the internal capsule, cerebral peduncle, and pons before crossing over to the opposite side of the brain at the level of the medulla. This crossing is known as the decussation of the pyramids.

Once the fibers have crossed over, they continue their descent in the spinal cord, forming the Lateral Corticospinal Tracts. These tracts run alongside the spinal cord, with the majority of fibers terminating in the ventral horn of the spinal gray matter. From there, the signals are transmitted to the lower motor neurons, which then innervate the muscles.

Function

The main function of the Lateral Corticospinal Tracts is to control voluntary movement. When the brain sends signals through these tracts, it allows for precise and coordinated movement of the muscles. This includes activities such as walking, writing, and grasping objects.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Lateral Corticospinal Tracts can result in motor deficits. This can occur due to various conditions, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or neurodegenerative diseases. Common symptoms of damage to these tracts include weakness, loss of coordination, and difficulty with fine motor skills.

See Also

• Motor Cortex
• Internal Capsule
• Pyramidal Tract