Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM

Browse over 1 million classes created by top students, professors, publishers, and experts.


See full index

CBS602 Back And Vertabral Column > Joints, Ligaments and Movements of the Vertebral Column > Flashcards

Joints, Ligaments and Movements of the Vertebral Column Flashcards

1
Q

What forms the intervertebral foramen?

A

The intervertebral foramen is formed by the superior vertebral notch of one vertebra and the inferior vertebral notch of the vertebra above.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What structures are involved in forming the zygapophyseal (facet) joint?

A

The zygapophyseal (facet) joint is formed by the articulation of the superior articular process and facet of one vertebra with the inferior articular process and facet of the vertebra above.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What type of joint is the zygapophyseal (facet) joint?

A

The zygapophyseal (facet) joint is a plane-type synovial joint, which allows for gliding movements.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What determines the type of movement allowed at facet joints?

A

The shape and orientation of the facet joints determine the type and range of movements allowed.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What surrounds the facet joints to provide stability?

A

The facet joints are surrounded by a joint capsule, which provides stability and facilitates smooth movement.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

At what angles are the facet joints oriented in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine?

A

Cervical spine: 45°
Thoracic spine: 60°
Lumbar spine: 90°

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is the function of the intervertebral disc?

A

The intervertebral disc acts as a cushion between vertebrae, providing shock absorption and facilitating slight movements between adjacent vertebrae.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What is the role of the intervertebral joints in the spine?

A

The intervertebral joints allow for flexibility and movement between vertebrae while maintaining stability of the spine.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What type of joints are intervertebral discs (IVDs)?

A

Intervertebral discs form secondary cartilaginous or symphyses joints between vertebral bodies.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

How many intervertebral discs are present in the spine, and between which vertebrae?

A

There are 23 intervertebral discs, spanning from C2-C3 to L5-S1. No disc exists between C1 and C2 (atlanto-axial joint).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What percentage of the vertebral column’s height is made up by intervertebral discs?

A

Intervertebral discs make up 25% of the vertebral column’s height.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

How does the thickness of intervertebral discs change along the spine?

A

The thickness of intervertebral discs gradually increases from the cervical to lumbar regions.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What are the two main components of an intervertebral disc?

A

The intervertebral disc is composed of the outer anulus fibrosus and the inner nucleus pulposus.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What is the function of the intervertebral discs?

A

Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, distributing load across the spine and allowing for small movements between vertebrae.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

What is the role of the anulus fibrosus in the intervertebral disc?

A

The anulus fibrosus is the tough outer layer of the disc that provides strength and stability, protecting the inner nucleus pulposus.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What is the function of the nucleus pulposus?

A

The nucleus pulposus is the gel-like core of the disc, which helps in shock absorption and distributing pressure evenly across the disc.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What are the two main craniovertebral joints?

A

The two main craniovertebral joints are the atlanto-occipital joint and the atlanto-axial joint.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What articulates at the atlanto-occipital joint?

A

The atlanto-occipital joint is formed between the superior articular surfaces of the atlas (C1) and the occipital condyles of the skull.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What movement occurs at the atlanto-occipital joint?

A

The atlanto-occipital joint allows for flexion and extension of the head, commonly referred to as the “YES” movement.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What are the two types of joints found at the atlanto-axial joint?

A

The atlanto-axial joint consists of lateral plane synovial joints and a median pivot synovial joint.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What articulates at the lateral atlanto-axial joint?

A

The lateral atlanto-axial joints are formed by the inferior facets of the atlas (C1) articulating with the superior facets of the axis (C2).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What articulates at the median atlanto-axial joint?

A

Back: The median atlanto-axial joint is formed between the dens of the axis (C2) and the facet for the dens on the anterior arch of the atlas (C1).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What movement occurs at the atlanto-axial joint?

A

The atlanto-axial joint allows for rotation of the head, commonly referred to as the “NO” movement.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

What are the primary movements possible in the vertebral column?

A

The primary movements possible in the vertebral column are flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

What factors influence the movements possible in the vertebral column?

A

Movements in the vertebral column depend on several factors, including:

Facet joint orientation
Rib articulation
Ligaments and joint capsules
Soft tissue resistance

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

What is flexion in the context of vertebral movement?

A

Flexion refers to the bending forward of the vertebral column, decreasing the angle between the vertebral bodies.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

What is extension in the context of vertebral movement?

A

Extension refers to the bending backward of the vertebral column, increasing the angle between the vertebral bodies.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

What is lateral flexion?

A

Lateral flexion involves bending the vertebral column to the side, reducing the angle between the vertebrae on one side.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

What is rotation in the context of vertebral movement?

A

Rotation involves turning the vertebral column around its axis, allowing for twisting movements.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

How do facet joint orientations affect spinal movements?

A

The orientation of the facet joints determines the direction and extent of possible movements; for example, certain orientations allow for greater rotation or lateral flexion.

31
Q

What role do ligaments and joint capsules play in vertebral movement?

A

Ligaments and joint capsules provide stability to the vertebral column, limiting excessive movement and preventing injury.

32
Q

How does rib articulation influence spinal movements?

A

Rib articulation affects the mobility of the thoracic spine, influencing both rotation and lateral flexion due to the attachment of ribs to vertebrae.

33
Q

What movements are primarily permitted in the cervical region of the vertebral column?

A

The cervical region allows for flexion, extension, rotation, and side flexion.

34
Q

What anatomical features permit movement in the cervical region?

A

Movement in the cervical region is permitted by:

Atlanto-occipital and atlanto-axial joints
Orientation of facet joints
Relatively large intervertebral discs (IVDs)
Loose connective tissue

35
Q

What movements are primarily permitted in the thoracic region of the vertebral column?

A

The thoracic region allows for rotation and some lateral flexion. Flexion and extension are very limited.

36
Q

Why is flexion and extension limited in the thoracic region?

A

Flexion and extension are limited in the thoracic region due to the presence of ribs and the orientation of facet joints.

37
Q

What movements are primarily permitted in the lumbar region of the vertebral column?

A

The lumbar region allows for flexion, extension, and lateral flexion.

38
Q

Why is rotation not permitted in the lumbar region?

A

Rotation is not permitted in the lumbar region due to the interlocking nature of the sagittal facet joints, which limit rotational movement.

39
Q

What is the typical range of movement for flexion/extension in the cervical region?

A

Flexion/Extension in the cervical region can typically reach about 45°.

40
Q

What is the typical range of movement for lateral flexion in the cervical region?

A

Lateral flexion in the cervical region can typically reach about 60°.

41
Q

What is the typical range of movement for rotation in the cervical region?

A

Rotation in the cervical region can typically reach about 90°.

42
Q

What is the function of the Anterior Longitudinal Ligament?

A

The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament prevents hyperextension of the vertebral column.

43
Q

What does the Anterior Longitudinal Ligament connect?

A

The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament connects the anterior surfaces of vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs (IVDs), extending from the base of the occipital bone to the sacrum.

44
Q

Describe the characteristics of the Anterior Longitudinal Ligament.

A

The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament is strong and wide, providing significant support to the vertebral column.

45
Q

What is the function of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament?

A

The Posterior Longitudinal Ligament prevents hyperflexion of the vertebral column and posterior disc prolapses.

46
Q

What does the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament connect?

A

The Posterior Longitudinal Ligament connects the posterior surfaces of vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs (IVDs), extending from C2 to the sacrum.

47
Q

Describe the characteristics of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament.

A

The Posterior Longitudinal Ligament is narrow compared to the anterior counterpart but extends laterally at the intervertebral discs.

48
Q

How do the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments work together?

A

The Anterior Longitudinal Ligament prevents hyperextension, while the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament prevents hyperflexion, together providing stability and protection to the vertebral column.

49
Q

What does the Ligamentum Flavum connect?

A

The Ligamentum Flavum connects the laminae of adjacent vertebrae.

50
Q

What is unique about the composition of the Ligamentum Flavum?

A

The Ligamentum Flavum is elastic and appears yellow due to the presence of elastin.

51
Q

What is the function of the Ligamentum Flavum?

A

The Ligamentum Flavum helps prevent hyperflexion of the vertebral column.

52
Q

What do the Interspinous Ligaments connect?

A

The Interspinous Ligaments connect adjacent spinous processes of vertebrae.

53
Q

What are the characteristics and function of the Interspinous Ligaments?

A

The Interspinous Ligaments are weak and thin, helping to prevent hyperflexion.

54
Q

What do the Supraspinous Ligaments connect, and what is their function?

A

The Supraspinous Ligaments connect the posterior tips of the spinous processes from C7 to the sacrum, preventing hyperflexion. Above C7, they continue as the Nuchal Ligament.

55
Q

What do the Intertransverse Ligaments connect?

A

The Intertransverse Ligaments connect adjacent transverse processes of vertebrae.

56
Q

What is the function of the Intertransverse Ligaments?

A

The Intertransverse Ligaments help limit lateral flexion of the vertebral column.

57
Q

What is the Ligamentum Nuchae?

A

The Ligamentum Nuchae is the superior continuation of the supraspinous ligament, attaching to the external occipital protuberance of the occipital bone and limiting hyperflexion of the neck.

58
Q

What is the function of the Ligamentum Nuchae?

A

The Ligamentum Nuchae limits hyperflexion of the neck and helps stabilize the cervical spine.

59
Q

Where does the Transverse Ligament of the Atlas attach?

A

The Transverse Ligament of the Atlas attaches to the lateral masses of the atlas, passing posterior to the dens of the axis.

60
Q

What is the function of the Transverse Ligament of the Atlas?

A

The Transverse Ligament prevents posterior displacement of the dens, stabilizing the atlanto-axial joint.

61
Q

What are the Superior and Inferior Longitudinal Bands?

A

The Superior and Inferior Longitudinal Bands are extensions of the transverse ligament that attach to the occipital bone (superiorly) and the body of the axis (inferiorly).

62
Q

What is the function of the Superior and Inferior Longitudinal Bands?

A

The Superior and Inferior Longitudinal Bands prevent excessive movement of the dens, assisting in stabilizing the craniovertebral joints.

63
Q

What is the role of the Alar Ligaments?

A

The Alar Ligaments connect the dens to the occipital bone, stabilizing the dens and preventing excessive rotation of the head.

64
Q

What do the Alar Ligaments prevent?

A

The Alar Ligaments prevent excessive rotation of the cervical spine, particularly at the atlanto-axial joint.

65
Q

What is a disc prolapse (herniation)?

A

A disc prolapse occurs when the nucleus pulposus protrudes through a weak or torn anulus fibrosus, often caused by spinal flexion.

66
Q

Where is disc prolapse most common, and why?

A

Disc prolapse is most common between L4-S1 in the lumbar spine due to the high mechanical stress in this region, particularly during flexion.

67
Q

What is the usual direction of disc prolapse, and what does it affect?

A

Most disc prolapses are posterolateral, compressing exiting spinal nerve roots, often affecting the nerve root one spinal level below in the lumbar spine.

68
Q

Give an example of a nerve root affected by lumbar disc prolapse.

A

A L4/5 disc prolapse compresses the L5 nerve root.

69
Q

What can result from a posterior lumbar disc prolapse?

A

A posterior prolapse can result in cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition that compresses the cauda equina nerve roots.

70
Q

What causes cervical disc prolapses, and where do they commonly occur?

A

Cervical disc prolapses are typically caused by forced hyperflexion (e.g., in motor vehicle accidents) and are most common at C5-7.

71
Q

How are nerve roots affected in cervical disc prolapse?

A

In cervical disc prolapse, the nerve root exiting at the same level is affected, but is named for the vertebra below. For example, a C5/6 prolapse affects the C6 nerve root.

72
Q

What symptoms are associated with cervical disc prolapse?

A

Symptoms include unilateral pain, paraesthesia, and weakness in the affected area.

73
Q

What is spinal stenosis, and what causes it?

A

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the intervertebral foramen, which compresses exiting nerve roots, commonly caused by age-related changes and osteoarthritis.

CBS602 Back And Vertabral Column (3 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2025 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions