9/15 Questions Exam 2 Flashcards
What is the relationship of lumbar nerve root size to intervertebral foramen size above L4?
the nerve root size will account for less than 22% of the available size
What is the relationship of lumbar nerve root size to intervertebral foramen size below L4?
the nerve root size will account for up to 30% of the available size
Which are the largest spinal nerves?
L5 and S1 spinal nerves
What increases the length of the intervertebral foramen at L5?
the lumbosacral tunnel
What forms the lumbosacral tunnel?
the lumbosacral ligament, transverse process of L5 and sacral ala
What condition is the result of encroachment on the L5 spinal nerve?
the far out syndrome
What is the relationship between intervertebral disc herniation and lumbar spinal nerves?
the intervertebral disc above the intervertebral foramen is usually the source of damage
What is unusual about the sacral intervertebral foramen compared to other intervertebral foramina?
a completely osseous boundary exists
What is more likely the cause of nerve irritation at the sacral intervertebral foramen?
the tilt or position of the entire sacrum relative to the pelvis
What is the relationship of lumbar nerve root size to intervertebral foramen size above L4?
the nerve root size will account for less than 22% of the available size
What is unique about the relationship of spinal nerve to intervertebral foramen at S5-Co1?
there are two nerves present, S5 nerve and Co1 nerve
What are some examples of destructive lesions of the vertebral body?
tuberculosis, hemangiomas, osteoporosis
What may reduce the impact of intervertebral disc loss of integrity on the intervertebral foramen in the cervical and thoracic spine?
the joint of Luschka in the cervicals, the costocentral joint in the thoracics
What are examples of osteophyte formation that influence the intervertebral foramen?
the bony spurs of the vertebral body and para-articular processes on the lamina
What are examples of acquired alterations of the spinal curves identified in class?
obesity, pregnancy and the use of heavy backpacks
What is the recommended weight of a backpack compared to individuals weight for the developing spine?
backpack weight should not exceed 10% individual body weight
What embryonic event causes the direction of the posterior curve of the vertebral column?
the embryonic disc will undergo flexion in a cranial to caudal direction
Why is the posterior curve also called the primary curve?
it is the first curve to appear embryologically
What are the adult remnants of the primary curve along the vertebral column?
the thoracic or dorsal curve and the pelvic or sacrococcygeal curve
What are the names given to curves that form during development to reverse the direction of regions along the vertebral column?
anterior curve, secondary curve, compensatory curve
What is the shape of the lumbar intervertebral foramen?
reniform or earlobe-shaped
