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Central nervous system


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The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord. The central nervous system controls thought processes, guides movement, and registers sensations throughout the body.

The spinal cord is a single continuous structure that goes from the brain through the base of the skull and down the spinal column. Individual paired spinal nerves continue down to the tailbone.

Injuries or diseases that affect the central nervous system can sometimes cause permanent loss of function and disability.

Credits

AuthorJeannette Curtis
AuthorCaroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
EditorKathleen M. Ariss, MS
EditorSusan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate EditorTracy Landauer
Associate EditorPat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical ReviewerPatrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last UpdatedMay 25, 2007

Last Updated: May 25, 2007
Author:
Jeannette Curtis

Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:
Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine


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