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Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates the unconscious function of the organs, including the heart, the stomach, the lungs, and the intestines.

The ANS is part of the peripheral nervous system, which connects the organs and limbs to the central nervous system (the brain and the spinal cord). In addition to the ANS, the peripheral nervous system also includes the somatic nervous system, which regulates voluntary muscular activity such as arm or leg movement.

The autonomic nervous system is composed of three parts: the sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric nervous systems. The sympathetic nervous system controls our response to stress (the “fight-or-flight” impulse) and originates in the thoracic spine. The parasympathetic nervous system regulates smooth muscle contraction and originates in the cranium and the sacral region of the spine. The enteric nervous system controls digestion and is associated with one of the cranial nerves, the vagus.

The autonomic nervous system is a conglomeration of neurons, axons, synapses, and ganglia, many of which are located on a long chain that runs beside the spinal cord. These nerve structures work in conjunction, based on exterior or interior stimuli, to relay messages between the brain and muscle groups or glands. The bodily functions regulated by the autonomic nervous system include:

• Heart rate
• Digestion
• Respiration
• Salivation
• Perspiration
• Pupil dilation
• Urination
• Reproductive urges

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Because of its proximity to the spinal cord, the regulatory function of the autonomic nervous system can be affected by spinal conditions such as bulging disc, herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and others. Laser Spine Institute (LSI) can treat the symptoms of these and other spinal conditions using gentle, endoscopic techniques that can help you rediscover a life without pain. Contact LSI to learn more or for a free review of your MRI or CT scan.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.