Thoracolumbar system

Definition

The thoracolumbar system, part of the autonomic nervous system, consists of the sympathetic nerves that emerge from the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal cord. It is responsible for the body's fight or flight response, preparing the body to respond to stress or danger.

Related terms

Autonomic Nervous System:

A part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions such as heartbeat, digestion, and breathing.

Sympathetic Nervous System:

A branch of the autonomic nervous system involved in mobilizing the body’s resources during stress and emergencies, synonymous with the fight or flight response.

Fight or Flight Response: A physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival, primarily mediated by the sympathetic nervous system