Researchers discover that the spinal cord works with the brain to control complex motor functions

( Natural News ) The spinal cord displays more capability than most people give it credit for. A new study reported that this structure directly controls complicated motor functions in the arm. The spinal cord runs down the length of the spine. It is a large and important part of the central nervous system. In humans, its neural circuits govern the pain reflex. In animals, the spinal cord controls simple motor functions. Western University researchers reported that the spinal cord handles higher motor functions as well. For example, it controls the positioning of the hand in a space – a simple task that is more complicated than it sounds. “This research has shown that a least one important function is being done at the level of the spinal cord and it opens up a whole new area of investigation to say, ‘what else is done at the spinal level and what else have we potentially missed in this domain?’” asked Western researcher Dr. Andrew Pruszynski. As senior researcher and supervisor of the Western team, Pruszynski oversaw the investigation of the human spinal cord. The findings of their study were published in the journal Nature Neuroscience . (Related: Curcumin performs BETTER than drugs and surgery at treating spinal cord injuries – review .) Robotic exoskeleton helps researchers determine what controls the hand Manipulation of the positioning of a hand relies on sensory data from several nearby joints. The elbow and wrist, in particular, provide most of the data needed to determine the location of the appendage. 100% organic essential oil sets now available for your home and personal care, including Rosemary, Oregano, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Clary Sage and more, all 100% organic and laboratory tested for safety. A multitude of uses, from stress reduction to topical first aid. See the […]

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