Lumbar Spine Flashcards
What is the most distinct characteristics of the lumbar spine?
it has a large vertebral body to support weight
what is the purpose of the superior and inferior articular process?
superior: guide movement
inferior: restrict movment
what is the purpose of the laminae and pedicles?
protection
what is the purpose of the spinous process
muscle attachment and movement
what are the characteristics of L5
it has a massive body and transverse process
It is responsible for LSA between axis of the lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum
what are the nerves of the lumbar plexus (I Insist Going Feral Outside In Summer)
-iliohypogastric: L1
-ilioinguinal: L1
-genitofemoral: L1-L2
-femoral: L2-L4
-obturator: L2-L4
-inferior gluteal: L5-S2
-superior gluteal: L4-S1
what is the function of the anterior longitudinal ligament
it lays anterior to the vertebral bodies and gets thicker in the lumbar region
it limits ext and connects vertebral bodies
what is the function of the posterior longitudinal ligament
it lays posterior to the vertebral bodies and is thicker in the thoracic region. It limits flexion and also connects vertebral bodies.
what is the ligamentum flava
it lays on each side of the laminae. It sustains the column when you are upright because it is pulled taught. It also limits extension. It is important in limiting energy expenditure regarding posture.
what is the supraspinous ligament
it is on the spinous processes from C7-coccyx and limits flex
What are the function of the intertransverse ligaments?
they limit lateral flexion, go from C1-S1
what are the functions of iliolumbar and lumbosacral ligament
they prevent movement in any direction and stabilize L5
what is spondylothesis
It is when there is a stress fracture and sliding of the vertebrae. Common in adults over 50 in L4 &L5 as well as L5&S1.
Can be Grade 1-4.
What happens with excessive thoracic kyphosis
it is when there is an abnormal increase in the thoracic curvature. It is commonly due to osteoporosis as there is erosion in the anterior part of the vertebrae. Normally thoracic kyphosis is 42 degrees. An increase will lead to reduction in pulmonary capacity.
what happens with excessive lumbar lordosis
it will present with anterior pelvic tilt with an increase extension of lumbar vertebrae. Commonly seen in people with weak abdominal muscles and obese people.
