Back Problems Flashcards
Manifestations of lumbar herniated disk
Sciatic nerve pain Muscle spasms Paresethsia Absent reflexes Sexual dysfunction Urinalysis elimination problems
Manifestations of cervical herniated disk pain
Shoulder, neck, arm pain
Stiff neck, muscle spasm
Absent reflexes
Hyperactive lower extremity reflexes
Dx test for herniated disk
X Ray
CT
Myleogram
EMG
Treatment for herniated disks
NSAIDs and muscle relaxers
Surgery if pain persists 6 weeks
Kinds of back surgery
Laminectomy: relieve pressure Spinal fusion: insert bone Foraminotomy: remove bone IDET: apply heat Microdiskectomy: small incision
Nursing diagnosis for herniated disks
Acute pain
Chronic pain
Constipation
Pt Teaching r/t back surgery
Logrolling Use pain meds Fracture pan Elevate HOB slightly Q2 turns Monitor for nerve compression/ injury Monitor pain/ infection Increase mobility Deep breathing, incentive spirometer Monitor site for hematoma or CSF leakage
What is scoliosis
Curvature of spine greater than 10 degrees
Manifestations of scoliosis
Truncal asymmetry Uneven shoulders/ hips/ ribs Prominent scapula Back/ hip pain Extertional dyspraxia
Mild scoliosis
10-20 degree
Treatment: exercises that strengthen putter curve and stretch inner curve
Follow up appt in 3 months
Moderate scoliosis
20-40 degree
Tx: wear back brace 23 hrs a day
Electrical stimulation- contract muscles to maintain position, don’t need brace, performed at night
Sever scoliosis
40-50 degree
Tx: surgery spinal fusion
Wear “shell” for months , wires in back, might need brace at times
Nursing diagnoses
Impaired Adjustment Impaired mobility Impaired Breathing Health seeking behaviors Disturbed body image
Patient Teaching
Body mechanics
Physical therapy/ Rehab
Activity restriction- 6-8 months
Compliance
Herniated Disk aka ruptured/ slipped disk
Slipping of nucleous pulpous
Can be caused by trauma or spontaneous
Excruciating pain affects ADLs
