Evaluation of reflex changes. 1  Muscle: Stretch reflexes are depressed in parallel to loss of strength. 2  Neuromuscular junction: Stretch reflexes are depressed in parallel to loss of strength. 3  Peripheral Nerve: Stretch reflexes are depressed, usually out of proportion to weakness (which may be minimal).
Spinal cord: The major column of nerve tissue that is connected to the brain and lies within the vertebral canal and from which the spinal nerves emerge. Thirty-one pairs of spinal nerves originate in the spinal cord: 8 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 1 coccygeal. The spinal cord and the brain constitute the central nervous system. The spinal cord consists of nerve fibers that transmit impulses to and from the brain. Like the brain, the spinal cord is covered by three connective-tissue envelopes called the meninges.
What are spinal column tumors? Spinal column tumors can be divided into two types: primary and metastatic, the latter of which is much more common, Dr. Baird says. He also describes symptoms and treatment options.