Spine and Vertebrae Flashcards
Define optimal relationship in reference to the spine
- when all aspects of the vertebral body are in line w/subjacent vertebra
- forming parallel discs
- nucleus acts like pivotal ball
What are the 2 main functions of the spine?
- Protection
- Support
How is stability of the spine accomplished?
Through the use of strong restraining ligaments
Why is the C spine subject to more trauma than other spinal areas?
- Because it supports the head
- due to the head’s inertia and momentum it is often subjected to trauma
How can you check for loss of smooth lateral tharacic arc?
- laterally flex or bend the patient slowly
- look for the loss of a smooth arc
What is typically the cause of bilateral loss of the lateral thoracic arc?
- a segment of the spine is fixed or stacking is present
- usually posteriority is the major part of the listing
What is typically the cause of unilateral thoracic arc?
- the wedge should be the major part of the listing
- Wedge will be suspected on the side of the unilateral loss
What are th 4 sagittal curves of the spine?
Cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrococcygeal
Why do we have 4 curves in the spine?
increase its resistance to axial compression forces (absorb shock)
Why does the lumbar curve change when the sacrum changes?
- the sacrum is the base of the spine
- the lumbars follow the movement of teh sacrum
How much stronger is a spine with curves than a spine with no curves?
spine w/curves = 17x stronger
what forms cervical lordosis?
shape of vertebral bodies
why is the cervical curve so important
- because it supports weight of the head
- every step causes shock to the discs
- hyperlordosis–>discs alone absorb full shock
What is the anterior part of the vertebra responsible for?
supporting structure
What is the posterior of the vertebra responsible for?
directs motion of the vertebrae
