ABSTRACT
The neuron is the defining unit of the nervous system. A basic assessment of autonomic nervous system function is useful: colour, warmth and sudomotor function can be assessed quickly and easily. Certain congenital or syndromic neuromuscular disorders are obvious at birth (example, spina bifida and arthrogryposis). Anatomically, neurological structures can be divided into the central nervous system (the CNS, comprising the brain and tracts of the spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) which includes the cranial and spinal nerves. In terms of physiological function, both the CNS and the PNS have a somatic component and an autonomic component. The somatic nervous system provides efferent motor and afferent sensory pathways to and from peripheral parts of the body serving, respectively, voluntary muscle contraction and sensibility. The autonomic system controls involuntary reflex and homeostatic activities of the cardiovascular system, visceral organs and glands. Its two components, sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, serve more or less opposing functions.
