Bones at the base of the skull
Spinal Nerve Roots
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Two pairs of nerve roots extend from each segment of the spinal cord.
The 
ventral roots (anterior roots) allow motor neurons to exit the spinal cord.
- The dorsal roots (posterior roots) allow sensory neurons to enter the spinal cord.
- Along each dorsal root is small bulge called the dorsal root ganglion (or spinal ganglion). Inside the ganglia are the cell bodies of the sensory neurons.
- The dorsal and ventral nerve roots fuse to form a spinal nerve.
Identify and solve gaps in your knowledge with these spinal cord diagrams and quizzes.
- Openings between the vertebrae called intervertebral foramina (singular; foramen) allow the spinal nerves to enter and exit the vertebral column.
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