Neuroanatomy · Nervous System · Medium

Myotome

Meaning: A group of muscles supplied mainly by a single spinal nerve root.

In practice: Testing ankle dorsiflexion strength assesses the L4 root.

Word parts

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Two questions on related neuroanatomy words.

Which word means: A neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.

Which word means: Non-neuronal support cells of the nervous system that protect and nourish neurons.

One medical word a day, then a quick three-question quiz. Free on iPhone, or play in your browser on Android and computer.