Neuromuscular: Brainstem

Question 1

Brainstem

Answer 1

• Controls the flow of information between the brain and spinal cord.
• Critical to involuntary functions, consciousness, arousal
• Houses nuclei for various neurotransmitters that influence the cortex and spinal cord.
• Contains cranial nerve nuclei.

Question 2

Brainstem: Motor Control

Answer 2

• Critical for maintaining autonomous rhythmic movements.
• Descending pathways control head neck control and postural stability.
• Sensory integration with trunk and proximal muscle activation.
• Allows for input of vestibular and visual input during rapid head/body movements.