Regional MSK Problems

Question 1

Give two self-limiting causes of lower back pain

Answer 1

nerve route entrapment

mechanical back pain

Question 2

What are the red flags for back pain?

Answer 2

below 20 or above 50
persistant pain over 6 weeks
worse at night or morning
systemic illness
neurological symptoms

Question 3

What causes Cauda Equina syndrome?

Answer 3

A central lumbosacral disc protrusion which compresses the spinal chord.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 4

lower limb weakness
perianal anaesthesia thus:
urine retention
back pain
faecal incontinence
erectile dysfunction

Question 5

Define Sciatica

Answer 5

Nerve pain radiating from the buttock down the thigh below the knee and possibly to the foot. Often caused by disc prolapse which irritates or encroaches on the lower lumbar or sacral root.