Module 5 (Spinal cord) Flashcards
(41 cards)
Where is the spinal cord located and what is it supported by
In the vertebral canal supported by the vertebral column
How are messages transmitted between the CNS and PNS
Spinal nerves exit the spinal cord to supply sensory and motor innervations to regions close to the level of exit
Where does the spinal cord begin
At the foramen magnum of the occipital lobe and extends inferiorly to the level of L2
Function of the spinal cord
Facilitates communication between the CNS and PNS through the spinal nerves
What is the level of L2 known as
Conus medullaris
Inferior to L2, the axons emerging from the spinal cord are known as what
Cauda equina
Within the cauda equina, a small thin strand of pia mater is known as what
Filum terminale
What does filum terminale do
Anchors the spinal cord to the scrum and coccyx
Regions of the spinal cord
Same names as the regions of the vertebral column
Where is the spinal cord enlarged
At the cervical and lumbar levels
Why do enlargements of the spinal cord occur
Because of the additional nerves existing in the spinal cord that supply the limbs
What is a spinal cord injury (SCI)
Occurs when the spinal cord is damaged such that signals between the brains and PNS have difficulty communicating
Which functions will suffer some degree of impairment below the point of injury (SCI)
Motor deficit
Sensory deficit
Bowel and bladder dysfunction
Respiratory difficulties
Where do C-level injuries occur
The cervical region of the spine
C1-C3 injuries
Limited movement of head and neck
Paralysis below that region
Difficulty talking
Require a ventilator to breath
C3-C4 injuries
Have head and neck movement
Limited shoulder movement
Typically able to walk
Can adjust to breathing without a ventilator
C5 injuries
have head, neck, and shoulder control
Can bend elbows and rotate hands
Self care is manageable
Can push wheelchair
Driving is frequently possible with aid
C6 injuries
Movement of the head, neck, shoulder, arms and wrists
Can bend elbows, extend the wrist, and rotate the palms
Can perform most self care duties, light housekeeping
Can manage a manual wheelchair
C7 injuries
Similar abilities to C6, but can manage more easily
Where do T-level injuries occur
In the thoracic region of the spine
C8-T1 injuries
Use of head, neck, shoulder, arms, hands, and fingers
Able to live alone
T2-T6 injuries
Normal functioning upper body
Some degree of impairment in legs
Can walk with assistive devices
T7-T12 injuries
Similar function to T2-T6 with slightly more control
Where do L-level injuries occur
In the lumbar region of the spine
