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To better understand cerebral palsy, it helps to understand the anatomy of the brain.
The brain is well protected by:
The scalp
The skull
The dura
o A tough 3-layer sheath that surrounds the brain and spinal cord
o Layers include the dura mater (strongest layer), arachnoid mater (middle layer),
and pia mater (closest to the brain)
The cerebrum:
The cerebellum:
o Located in the lower, back part of the skul
o Controls movement and coordination
The blood supply to the brain is divided into two main parts:
o The back portion of the brain is supplied by the paired vertebral arteries in the
spine.
Cerebellum: The word 'cerebellum' literally means little brain. It is the second largest part of the
brain, and is located at the back, below the occipital lobe, beneath the cerebrum and behind the
brain stem. It contains an outer gray cortex and an inner white medulla, and has horizontal
furrows, which makes it look different from the rest of the brain.
Functions:
Storing memory for reflex motor acts. It is basically involved with learning new
movements, and coordinating and executing them properly.
It is also involved with coordinating simultaneous subconscious actions, like eating while
talking or listening etc.
The extension of the central nervous system is through the medulla oblongata, which continues
as the spinal cord, by exiting the skull through the foramen magnum and continuing in the spinal
column. This is where the spinal cord gives out nerves which form the peripheral nervous
system. So, I hope this comprehensive article on diagram of the brain and its functions has
helped you become a mini neurologist in your own right!
By Dr. Sumaiya Khan