Explores the structure of the spinal cord and nerves and how they help our bodies to function. Also explains the different illnesses, conditions, and injuries that can affect our spinal cord and nerves, from spinal meningitis to a slipped disk, and outlines ways that we can keep our spinal cord and nerves healthy.

Includes index. Includes glossary. Includes index and glossary.

The nervous system -- Nerve cells -- Inside a nerve -- How nerve signals work -- Chemical connections -- Spinal cord and spinal column -- Protecting the spinal chord and nerves -- Around the spinal cord -- Inside the spinal cord -- Peripheral nerves -- Nerve reflexes -- Autonomic nervous system -- Spinal chord injury -- First aid for spinal and nerve injuries -- Levels of spinal injury -- Spinal chord and nerve infections -- Spinal chord and nerve problems -- Spinal chord and nerve disorders -- Drugs and the nervous system -- Repairing the nervous system -- What can go wrong with my spinal cord and nerves?