MSK Disk Disorders

Question 1

What is the fibrous tissue and fibrocartilage form the discs outer rim?

Answer 1

Annulus fibrosus

Question 1

What is the central core in a invertebral disc called and what does it act as?

Answer 1

Nucleus pulpous
Shock absorber cushion

Question 2

Where do nerves exit at on the spinal cord?

Answer 2

Each vertebrae

Question 3

What causes a herniated disc?

Answer 3

Disc degeneration
Acute trauma
Connective tissue disorders

Question 4

Where are herniated discs most common?

Answer 4

Lumbosacral area

Question 5

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Answer 5

Acute pain
Weakness
Sensory changes
Sometimes asymptomatic

Question 6

What is the ‘Cauda Equina’

Answer 6

The spinal cord ends at the level L1, the nerves that extend from here are called a horses tail. Cauda equina syndrome is a severe compression of this group of nerves.

Question 7

What is cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 7

A severe compression of the ‘horses tail’ nerves

Question 8

What causes cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 8

Disc herniation
Intradural tumour
Epidural haematoma
Lumbar anaesthesia
Infection

Question 9

What are the symptoms of cauda equina?

Answer 9

Back pain
Bilateral radiculopathy
Sphincteric problems
Perineal sensory changes
Bowel dysfunction
Bladder dysfunction
Saddle anaesthesia