What Are the Functions of the Spinal Nerves?

The nervous system is responsible for controlling every function of the body. Much of the nervous system goes through the spinal column. If the brain is where information is processed, then the spinal cord acts as the cable that runs the information to the rest of the body. If any of the nerves or related components are damaged, disrupted or cannot function properly, it can affect very specific regions of the body, like pain in the shoulders or wrist, or it can be more severe like permanent disability in the legs.

Spinal Cord

• The spinal cord is only about the width of a human finger and goes from the brain all the way down the center of the back. It is surrounded by cerebral spinal fluid, which acts as a cushion to keep the nerves safe from shock against the inside of the spinal column. The spinal cord is made of two types of bundles. Ascending tracts relay information like sensory details to the brain. Descending tracts carry information like movement from the brain to the body.

Cervical Nerves

• The cervical nerves involve the shoulder, arm, neck and hands. Pain in these areas can usually be traced back to these nerves, and symptoms like arm pain, numbness and stiff necks are because of nerve pain. These nerves also control the function of the throat, sinuses, nose, thyroid gland, lymph nodes and diaphragm.

Thoracic Nerves

• The thoracic nerves run along the middle of the back. The thoracic spine also contains the ribs of the chest. These nerves go to muscles, tissues and internal organs. The surface tissue of the elbows, hands, and fingers are affected by these nerves. These nerves also affect the chest, abdomen, heart, lungs, liver, stomach, pancreas, spleen, adrenal glands, kidneys and the small intestine. Problems associated with these areas include asthma, allergies, ulcers and kidney problems.

Lumbar Nerves

• The lumbar nerves and spine have some of the largest muscles attached to it. It also controls these muscles. The lumbar nerves are responsible for coordinating the lower back muscles, thighs, legs, calves and feet. Nerves that exit from the lumbar nerves also control the large intestine, appendix, bladder, prostate gland and the male and female reproductive organs.

Sacral Nerves

• The sacral nerves are located in the sacrum and coccyx, more commonly known as the tailbone. Nerves exiting through these bones affect the buttocks, hips, thighs and legs. The rectum and some pelvic tissues are also affected by these nerves. Problems associated with the sacral nerves may include hemorrhoids, scoliosis and general pain when trying to sit.