Cervical & Thoracic Spine

Question 1

Functions of the vertebral column

Answer 1

-supports the weight of the skull, pelvis, upper limbs and thoracic cage
-protect the spinal cord & cauda equina
-posture and locomotion
-bone marrow, for haematopoiesis

Question 2

Why does the thoracic spine have limited flexibility

Answer 2

The rib cage is connected to each segment of the thoracic spine

Question 3

For what organs does the sternum, thoracic spine and rib cage provide stability for?

Answer 3

T1-T10: Heart, lungs, liver
T11-T12: Kidney, Retroperitoneum (posterior wall of abdomen)

Question 4

What kind of actions do facet joints permit

Answer 4

Lateral flexion and rotation

Question 5

What is Sciatica

Answer 5

Interference with any of the nerve roots and the disruption to sensation that is produced

Question 6

What are the causes of Sciatica

Answer 6

Disc herniation
Lumbar stenosis
Marginal osteophytosis

Question 7

What is a risk factor of Sciatica

Answer 7

Obesity

Question 8

Symptoms of Sciatica

Answer 8

-Pain in the back, buttock, affected dermatologist
-Altered sensation and

Question 9

What is Cauda Equina Syndrome

Answer 9

Compression of the lumbar cord

Question 10

What are the causes of Cauda Equina Syndrome

Answer 10

compression

Question 11

What are the symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome

Answer 11

S
P
I
N
E

Question 12

What is a Lumbar Puncture

Answer 12

Needle is inserted into spinal subarachnoid space to collect CSF

Question 13

What are some conditions Lumbar Puncture is used

Answer 13

Meningitis

Question 14

Why is the patient positioned in a foetal position for this procedure

Question 15

What level is the needle inserted at, why is this important