Spine

Question 1

What is spondylosis?

Answer 1

When the intervertebral discs loos water content with age, resulting in less cushioning and increased pressure on facet joints, leading to secondary OA.

Question 2

Which spinal level does a disc tear most commonly occur?

Answer 2

Lower lumbar spine - L4, L5 and S1

Question 3

What is cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 3

When a large central disc prolpase compresses all of the nerve roots of the cauda equina.

Question 4

What are the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 4

Bilateral leg pain, paraesthesia, numbness.

Question 5

What are the investigations of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 5

PR Exam, urgent MRI scan

Question 6

What are the red flag symptoms for back pain?

Answer 6

Back patient in under 20s, new back pain in over 60s, nature of pain (constant, severe pain, worse at night), systemic upset (fever, night sweats, fatigue etc)