What High School
Doesn't Teach You
A STUDENT BLOG BY GRACE TAYLOR
GLOSSARY
Central Nervous System
The central nervous system (CNS) controls most functions of the body and mind. It consists of two parts: the brain and the spinal cord. From here, the brain can interpret information such as touch, temperature, and pain. The spinal cord is the highway for communication between the body and the brain. When the spinal cord is injured or diseased, the exchange of information between the brain and other parts of the body is disrupted.
The Musculoskeletal System
The musculoskeletal system forms the framework that holds the body together,
enables it to move, and protects and supports all the internal organs.
This system includes bones, joints, and muscles. Bones are made of osteous tissue and work with joints and muscles to move the various parts of the body. Muscles contract and extend from a stationary attatchment to the bone called the origin. They are covered by a band of connective tissue called the fascia.
Spinal Column
The spinal column is a cord of nervous tissue that extends from the brain to the coccyx. It runs lengthwise along the back in the vertebral canal and allows communication to and from the brain as a component of the central nervous system. It also serves as a center for initiating and coordinating many reflex acts.