Lower Motor Neurons
Lower motor neurons are nerve cells located in the spinal cord and brainstem that directly control muscle movements. They transmit signals from the central nervous system to skeletal muscles, enabling voluntary actions like walking and grasping. Damage to these neurons can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis.
These neurons are part of the peripheral nervous system and connect to muscle fibers at the neuromuscular junction. Conditions affecting lower motor neurons, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or spinal muscular atrophy, can result in significant motor impairment and require medical intervention for management.