rygmarven

Rygmarven is the Danish term for the spinal cord, a major component of the central nervous system that connects the brain with the rest of the body. In adults it extends from the medulla oblongata at the base of the brainstem to the level of roughly the first or second lumbar vertebra, where it terminates as the conus medullaris. Below this point, nerve roots continue as the cauda equina within the vertebral canal. The spinal cord measures about 40 to 45 centimeters in length and contains both gray and white matter organized into functional regions.

Anatomically, the gray matter lies in the core and includes dorsal horns (sensory) and ventral horns (motor). The surrounding white matter contains ascending tracts that carry sensory information to the brain and descending tracts that convey motor commands from the brain. Spinal nerves emerge in 31 pairs from the cord, corresponding to body regions, via intervertebral foramina. The cauda equina consists of sacral and lumbar nerve roots that descend beyond the conus medullaris.

Protection and circulation are provided by three meninges (dura, arachnoid, and pia mater) and cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space. The spinal cord is stabilized by denticulate ligaments and receives blood from a single anterior spinal artery and two posterior spinal arteries, with additional segmental arteries reinforcing the supply.

Functions include transmitting sensory information to the brain and motor commands from the brain, as well as mediating spinal reflexes. Developmentally, the spinal cord arises from the neural tube. Clinically, injury or disease can disrupt motor and sensory function below the affected level, making imaging and neurological assessment essential in diagnosis and management.