prolapsed disc Flashcards
1
Q
what does a prolapsed lumbar disc usually produce?
A
clear dermatomal leg pain associated with neurological deficits
2
Q
what are the features of a prolapsed lumbar disc?
A
- leg pain worse than back pain
- pain often worse when sitting
3
Q
- Sensory loss over anterior thigh
- Weak quadriceps
- Reduced knee reflex
- Positive femoral stretch test
what is the site of compression?
A
L3 nerve root compression
4
Q
- Sensory loss anterior aspect of knee
- Weak quadriceps
- Reduced knee reflex
- Positive femoral stretch test
what is the site of compression?
A
L4 nerve root compression
5
Q
- Sensory loss dorsum of foot
- Weakness in foot and big toe dorsiflexion
- Reflexes intact
- Positive sciatic nerve stretch test
what is the site of compression?
A
L5 nerve root compression
6
Q
- 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
what is the site of compression?
A
S1 nerve root compression
7
Q
how do you manage a prolapsed lumbar disc?
A
similar to other MSK LBP:
- analgesia
- physiotherapy
- exercises
8
Q
what is sx of prolapsed lumbar disc persist e.g. after 4-6 weeks?
A
referral for consideration of MRI
