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How are the 31 pairs of spinal nerves grouped by region?

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In the human body, the 31 pairs of spinal nerves are organized into segments based on the region of the spinal cord from which they emerge. These nerves connect the spinal cord to specific areas of the body.12

The 31 pairs are grouped as follows:

  • Cervical (C): 8 pairs12
  • Thoracic (T): 12 pairs12
  • Lumbar (L): 5 pairs12
  • Sacral (S): 5 pairs12
  • Coccygeal (Coc): 1 pair12

Each of these nerves is associated with a dorsal root for sensory input and a ventral root for motor output.12