What is the function of the somatic nervous system?
1 Answer
The somatic nervous system ( SoNS ) is part of the peripheral nervous system, associated with skeletal muscle voluntary control of body movements.
Explanation:
The primary role of the SoNS is to connect with the central nervous system ( CNS ) to the organs , muscles and skin.
It is like a passageway from the environment to the CNS. The afferent neurons carry the impulses to the CNS and the brain. After being processed by the CNS , the somatic motor or efferent neurons take the signal back to the muscle and sensory organs.
Another role of the SoNS involves reflex actions by way of a reflex arc. It is an involuntary process ( that is not associated with an impulse from the CNS ) associated with the somatic nerve pathway, allowing the reflex to occur very quickly.
SoNS consists of afferent nerves and efferent nerves. Afferent nerves are responsible for relaying sensations from the body to the CNS. Efferent nerves are responsible for sending out commands from the CNS to the body, stimulating muscle contractions. They include all the non sensory neurons connected with skeletal muscles and skin.
