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The central nervous system (CNS) is made up of the brain and the spinal cord. The central nervous system controls thought processes, guides movement, and registers sensations throughout the body.
The spinal cord is a single continuous structure that goes from the brain through the base of the skull and down the spinal column. Individual paired spinal nerves continue down to the tailbone.
Injuries or diseases that affect the central nervous system can sometimes cause permanent loss of function and disability.
Current as of: August 25, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
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