OSCE: Thoracolumbar Flashcards
Is the cervical spine a concavity or convexity?
Concavity (inward curve)
aka Lordosis
Is the thoracic spine a concavity or convexity?
Convexity (outward curve)
aka Kyphosis
Is the lumbar spine a concavity or convexity?
Concavity (inward curve)
aka Lordosis
What is the role of the anterior vertebral body?
Supports weight bearing
What is the role of the posterior vertebral arch?
Encloses spinal cord
If you notice a “step-off” when palpating the lower lumbar area, what can be a possible diagnosis?
Spondylolisthesis
In what issues are tenderness over the sacroiliac joint common?
Sacroiliitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis
What does the straight leg raise test indicate?
Lumbosacral radiculopathy and/or sciatic neuropathy
What does the crossed straight leg raise test indicate?
Lumbosacral radiculopathy and/or sciatic neuropathy
What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?
Spinal nerve root compression due to massive disc protrusion, fracture/trauma, or a tumor resulting in bowel/bladder dysfunction
What causes spina bifida?
Congenital malformation normally due to failure of lamina fusion in vertebra leading to neural tube defects in lumbar spine
What is Spina Bifida Oculta?
Small split in vertebrae with NO spinal cord protrusion
Normally found at L5-S1
What is a meningocele?
Meninges forced out between vertebra with little or no neurological damage
What is a myelomeningocele?
Unfused portion of spinal cord protrudes through opening that can cause severe neurologic complications
What is Ferguson’s Angle?
Angle made with two measurements evaluating the stability of the lumbosacral region
- Lumbosacral angle
- Lumbar gravity line
