What is Somatic Nervous System Made of?
The somatic nervous system (SNS) is made up of nerves, neurons, and glial cells:
- Nerves
- Connect the brain and spinal cord to muscles and skin sensory receptors.
- Transmit signals between the central nervous system (CNS) and the rest of the body.
- Include cranial nerves originating from the brainstem and spinal nerves emerging from the spinal cord.
- Neurons
- Nerve cells that send and relay signals throughout the body.
- Process and transmit information via electrical and chemical signals.
- Include sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons.
- Glial Cells
- Support cells that help develop and maintain neurons.
- Provide structural support, insulation, and nourishment to neurons.
- Include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia in the CNS, and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
Also Read: Difference Between Sensory And Motor Neurons
Somatic Nervous System
The somatic nervous system (SNS) controls voluntary movements and reflex arcs by transmitting sensory information to the central nervous system (CNS) and motor commands from the CNS to skeletal muscles. It consists of motor neurons that stimulate muscle contractions and sensory neurons that relay information from sensory organs. The SNS enables conscious control over bodily movements and responds to external stimuli. It plays an important role in activities such as walking, grasping, and reflex actions.
In this article, we will study the somatic nervous system, its components, functions, mechanism of action and disorders in detail.
Table of Content
- What is the Somatic Nervous System?
- What is Somatic Nervous System Made of?
- Components of the Somatic Nervous System
- Sensory Neurons
- Motor Neurons
- Neuromuscular Junctions
- Sensory Receptors
- Spinal Cord
- Brainstem and Motor Cortex
- Cranial Nerves
- Types of Somatic Nervous System
- 1. Afferent (Sensory) Nerves
- 2. Efferent (Motor) Nerves
- 3. Interneurons
- Importance of the Somatic Nervous System
- Difference Between SNS and ANS
- Mechanism of Somatic Nervous System
- Somatic Nervous System Functions
- Disorders that Affect Somatic Nervous System
- Symptoms of Somatic Nervous System Disorders
- Treatments for Somatic Nervous System Disorders