The Brain and Its Functions

The human body is a complex machine made up of multiple organs which all work together. The brain is the control center of the human body. It is exceedingly complex and has multiple vital duties. In fact, while scientists have long studied the brain, there is still much to learn. The brain is vital to the proper functioning of the body, reasoning, and emotions. Brain injuries are often devastating to an individual and their family. If you, or a loved one, have suffered a brain injury, you may have legal recourse.An attorney experienced in representing clients with brain injury related legal claims can help you understand your legal options.

Brain Basics

The brain is part of the central nervous system and is the control center of the human body. The brain allows us to know ourselves, to reason, and to understand our environment and those around us.

The brain may be described as a bundle of gelatinous nervous system material floating in a protective sea of cerebrospinal fluid. The fluid acts as a shock absorber to help to dampen movement of the brain when a person is jolted, or otherwise makes a quick movement. The fluid is encased inside of the skull, which acts as a protective shell. The outside of the skull is smooth, but the inside is rough and boney. These rough, boney structures inside the skull can injure the brain when a person is struck or jolted.

The brain is a sensory processor. This means that it controls thought, smell, sight, memory, and touch. In addition, the brain controls vital bodily functions such as walking, talking, breathing, and heart rate.

Brain structure

Most of the brain's functions are tied to a certain section of the brain. There are three main parts of the brain; these are the cerebrum, cerebellum, and the brain stem.

Cerebrum

The cerebrum is the largest section of the brain. It is divided into two hemispheres, which are further divided into lobes. The lobes are the frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital. Each lobe is a center for certain brain functions. The outer cerebrum, or cerebral cortex, is responsible for the greatest order of brain function. This includes the brain's integration with the rest of the central nervous system. Different parts of the cerebral cortex are related to the control of cognitive abilities, memory, motor function, learning, speech, and other activities linked to the autonomic nervous system such as breathing and maintenance of the heart rate.

Cerebellum

The cerebellum is a large part of the hindbrain. It controls the coordination of voluntary and involuntary muscle movements. It is responsible for muscle tone, balance, posture, and the coordination of the groups of muscles that are under a person's voluntary control.

The Brain Stem

The brain stem is the lower extension of the brain. It connects the upper part of the brain to the spinal cord. It acts as a relay station between incoming stimuli and the cortex. It also controls basic bodily functions such as heart rate, breathing, and alertness.

Conclusion

The brain is the central control and interpretation center for the human body. When a person suffers a brain injury they may be unable to work, learn, walk, or talk. If you, or a loved one, have suffered a brain injury, you may have legal recourse.An attorney who is experienced with handling brain injury-related legal claims can help you understand your legal options.

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