OLIVOSPINAL TRACT Meaning and
Definition
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The olivospinal tract is a bundle of nerve fibers that originates from the inferior olivary nucleus in the medulla oblongata of the brainstem and extends downwards into the spinal cord. This tract is considered a part of the medial descending pathway, a major system involved in conveying commands from the brain to the spinal cord, which ultimately controls voluntary movement of the body.
The olivospinal tract consists of axons that descend from the inferior olivary nucleus, an important structure in motor control and coordination. These axons travel in the contralateral (opposite) side of the spinal cord, meaning that fibers originating from the left side of the brainstem project to the right side of the spinal cord, and vice versa. This arrangement allows for the coordination and synchronization of movements on both sides of the body.
The main function of the olivospinal tract is to modulate and refine motor activity in the spinal cord by influencing the activity of alpha and gamma motor neurons. It is involved in regulating fine motor movements, particularly those related to limb coordination, skilled motor tasks, and muscle tone regulation. Due to its connections with other motor pathways, such as the corticospinal tract, the olivospinal tract aids in maintaining proper posture, balance, and coordination during voluntary movements.
Disruptions or damage to the olivospinal tract can result in motor deficits, altered coordination, and muscle tone abnormalities. Studying the olivospinal tract provides valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying motor control and can help in understanding and treating various movement disorders and neurological conditions.
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A crossed t. arising in the olivary body and terminating in relation with the motor cells of the anterior horn.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OLIVOSPINAL TRACT
Etymology of OLIVOSPINAL TRACT
The word "olivospinal tract" is a compound term that is derived from two main components: "olivo-" and "spinal tract".
1. Olivary: The term "olivo-" is derived from the Latin word "oliva", which means "olive". It is used as a prefix in various anatomical terms and refers to a structure that resembles an olive. In this context, it refers to the structure called the inferior olivary nucleus, which is located in the medulla oblongata of the brainstem.
2. Spinal Tract: The term "spinal tract" refers to a bundle of nerve fibers or axons that conducts sensory or motor information between the spinal cord and the brain. It is derived from the Latin word "spina", which means "thorn" or "spine".
