Some of the important tracts of axons running up and down the spinal cord can be seen in this view. On the left, the major ascending sensory pathways are indicated. The entire dorsal column consists of sensory axons ascending to the brain. This pathway is important for conscious appreciation of touch. The spinothalamic tract carries information about painful stimuli and temperature. On the right side are some of the descending tracts important for the control of movement. The names of the tracts describe their origins and terminations (e.g., the vestibulospinal tract originates in the vestibular nuclei of the medulla and terminates in the spinal cord). The descending tracts contribute to two pathways: the lateral and ventromedial pathways. The lateral pathway carries the commands for voluntary movements, especially of the extremities. The ventromedial pathway participates mainly in the maintenance of posture and certain reflex movements.
Dorsal column
Ascending sensory pathways
Descending sensory pathways
Lateral pathway
Medullar reticulospinal tract
Pontine reticulospinal tract
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