Spinal Cord Structure
The spinal cord is extremely important to the overall function of the nervous system. It is the communication link between the brain and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) inferior to the head, integrating incoming information and producing responses through reflex mechanisms.
The spinal cord extends from the foramen magnum to the level of the second lumbar vertebra, (L2) where it tapers to a point called the conus medullaris. Arising from the conus medullaris is a bundle of nerve roots called the cauda equina.
It is considerably shorter than the vertebral column because it does not grow as rapidly as does the vertebral column during development.