The Regulator
Function:
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) refers to parts of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord, like nerves. It is responsible for sending any messages for movement to voluntary muscles. It is also important in carrying sensory information about your environment to the CNS. Lastly, the PNS regulates functions outside of your control like sweating and blood pressure.
In the peripheral nervous system, bundles of nerve fibers or axons move information to and from the central nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is the part of the nervous system concerned with the innervation of involuntary structures, such as the heart, smooth muscle, and glands within the body. It is distributed throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Fun Fact:
Pain fibers, like those that carry bad news from your big toe to your CNS, conduct nerve impulses at a leisurely 2 miles per hour. You can walk faster than that!
*This site content is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have medical questions and/or concerns, please contact a medical professional.