Nerve root

Nerve Root

A nerve root or radix is the initial segment of a nerve leaving the central nervous system. Types of nerve roots include motor nerve roots, which carry motor information to the muscles, and sensory nerve roots, which carry sensory information to the brain.

Anatomy

Nerve roots emerge from the spinal cord and are part of the peripheral nervous system. They are grouped into pairs and are named for the section of the spine they originate from: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, or coccygeal. Each nerve root is connected to a specific segment of the body, following a pattern known as dermatome mapping.

Function

The primary function of nerve roots is to transmit signals between the spinal cord and the rest of the body. Motor nerve roots carry signals from the brain to the muscles, causing them to contract. Sensory nerve roots carry signals from sensory receptors in the skin, muscles, and other tissues back to the brain, allowing for sensations such as touch, temperature, and pain.

Clinical significance

Damage or compression of a nerve root, known as radiculopathy, can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, or altered reflexes in the area of the body served by the affected nerve. This can be caused by various conditions, including herniated disc, spinal stenosis, and tumors. Treatment options for radiculopathy can include medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Spinal nerve
• Dermatome (anatomy)
• Radiculopathy