p r o l a p s e d i s c

Question 1

prolapsed disc

Answer 1

prolapsed lumbar disc usually produces clear dermatomal leg pain associated with neurological deficits.

Question 2

L3 nerve root compression gives rise to

Answer 2

Sensory loss over anterior thigh
Weak quadriceps
Reduced knee reflex
Positive femoral stretch test

Question 3

L4 nerve root compression gives rise to

Answer 3

Sensory loss anterior aspect of knee
Weak quadriceps
Reduced knee reflex
Positive femoral stretch test

Question 4

L5 nerve root compression gives rise to

Answer 4

Sensory loss dorsum of foot
Weakness in foot and big toe dorsiflexion
Reflexes intact
Positive sciatic nerve stretch test

Question 5

S1 nerve root compression gives rise to

Answer 5

Sensory loss posterolateral aspect of leg and lateral aspect of foot
Weakness in plantar flexion of foot
Reduced ankle reflex
Positive sciatic nerve stretch test

Question 6

management of prolapsed disc

Answer 6

similar to that of other musculoskeletal lower back pain: analgesia, physiotherapy, exercises
if symptoms persist 9e.g. after 4-6 weeks) then referral for consideration of MRI is appropriate

Question 7

ankle jerk reflex

Answer 7

dorsiflexion