Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

13. The Peripheral Nervous System

Organization of Sensory Pathways

Anatomy & Physiology

13. The Peripheral Nervous System

Organization of Sensory Pathways

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Problem L3.2

Textbook Question

Ramin presents for evaluation after a severe shoulder injury during which his entire brachial plexus suffered damage. What effects would you expect Ramin to have from this injury?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the anatomy of the brachial plexus: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves originating from the spinal cord (C5-T1) that provides motor and sensory innervation to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Damage to this structure can result in widespread effects on these regions.

Identify the motor effects: Damage to the brachial plexus can lead to paralysis or weakness in the muscles of the shoulder, arm, and hand. This includes muscles responsible for movements such as shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, wrist extension, and finger movements.

Identify the sensory effects: The brachial plexus also carries sensory information from the skin of the shoulder, arm, and hand. Damage can result in numbness, tingling, or complete loss of sensation in these areas.

Consider autonomic effects: The brachial plexus contains some autonomic fibers that regulate blood flow and sweat production in the upper limb. Damage may lead to changes in skin temperature, color, or sweating in the affected limb.

Evaluate the severity and prognosis: The extent of the injury (partial or complete damage) will determine the severity of the effects. Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and possibly surgical intervention may be necessary to restore function or manage symptoms.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Brachial Plexus Anatomy

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originates from the spinal cord in the neck and extends into the arm. It is responsible for motor and sensory innervation to the upper limb. Damage to this plexus can lead to significant loss of function and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand, depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Neurological Effects of Nerve Injury

Nerve injuries can result in various neurological effects, including weakness, paralysis, and sensory deficits. In Ramin's case, damage to the brachial plexus may lead to muscle weakness in the shoulder and arm, loss of grip strength, and altered sensation, such as numbness or tingling in the affected areas.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Rehabilitation is crucial for recovery after a brachial plexus injury. It often involves physical therapy to improve strength, range of motion, and functional abilities. The extent of recovery can vary widely based on the severity of the injury, the promptness of treatment, and the individual's overall health.

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When Mr. Williams goes to the emergency department with pain in the area along the midline of the diaphragm, he worries he is having a heart attack. Could the pain be related to his heart? Could it be related to any other organ(s)? Explain.

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What are the three major somatic sensory pathways and their functions?

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Which of the following regions of the body has the largest area of sensory cortex devoted to it?

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Which of the following correctly describes the initial step in the dorsal column-medial lemniscal pathway?

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When Mr. Dinh goes to the emergency department with pain in the area along the midline of the diaphragm, he worries he is having a heart attack. Could the pain be related to his heart? Could it be related to any other organ(s)? Explain.

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Sensory (ascending) pathways distribute information to which part of the central nervous system?

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Neurons in the somatosensory cortex receive somatic sensory information from which of the following?

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Which region of the spinal cord is primarily responsible for transmitting somatic sensory information to the brain?

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