The spinal cord is a crucial part of the central nervous system, connecting the brain with the rest of the body. There are several synonyms for the term spinal cord, including spinal column, vertebral column, backbone, and neural axis. Each of these terms refers to the bundle of nerve fibers that run down the length of the vertebral column. The spinal cord is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body's periphery to the brain and for relaying motor impulses from the brain to the muscles. Injuries to the spinal cord can have devastating consequences, including loss of sensation, movement, and control over bodily functions.