Motion Segment Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is a motion segment?
The functional units of the spine, consisting of two adjacent vertebrae and the intervertebral disc.
What are the main components of the spinal column?
- Vertebrae
- Intervertebral discs
- Ligaments
- Muscles
What are the functions of motion segments?
- Enable flexibility and range of motion
- Absorb and distribute loads
- Ensure spinal stability and proper biomechanics
What types of movements do motion segments allow?
- Flexion
- Extension
- Lateral bending
- Rotation
What is the primary function of the nucleus pulposus?
Absorption of spinal loads and distribution to surrounding tissues.
What is the role of the annular fibrosus?
Encases nucleus pulposus and resists compressive forces on the spine.
What do the end plates of the intervertebral disc do?
Anchor adjacent vertebrae and regulate nutrient transportation.
From which embryological structures does the intervertebral disc develop?
- Notochord -> nucleus pulposus
- Sclerotome -> annulus fibrosus and endplate
What are the effects of forces applied to the intervertebral disc?
Discs give a non-linear response to a load including compression, tension, axial rotation, and lateral flexion.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)?
Age-related condition affecting intervertebral discs, leading to lower back pain and other spinal issues.
What are some clinical implications of DDD?
- Impact on quality of life
- Risk of chronic pain
- Occupational considerations
What are the treatment options for DDD?
- Conservation management
- Surgical options
- Lifestyle modifications
What is disc herniation?
Displacement of the nucleus pulposus from intervertebral space, inferring nerve pain and possible spinal cord dysfunction.
Fill in the blank: The intervertebral disc is formed from three major components: _______.
[Nucleus Pulposus, Annular Fibrosus, Cartilaginous Endplates]
What are the structural changes in intervertebral discs associated with DDD?
- Loss of hydration
- Loss of disc height
- Impact of adjacent vertebrae and facet joints
List the three classifications of herniated discs.
- Posterolateral Disc Herniation
- Central Herniation
- Lateral Disc Herniation
Each classification is based on the location of the herniation and its effect on surrounding structures.
What are the four stages of disc herniation?
- Bulging
- Protrusion
- Extrusion
- Sequestration
These stages describe the progression of disc herniation from initial bulging to the most severe form.
What are some clinical implications of a herniated disc?
- Risk of quality of life
- Spinal nerve compression
- Chronic lower back pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Difficulty walking/muscle weakness (rare)
These implications highlight the potential impact of herniated discs on daily activities and overall health.
Fill in the blank: The first stage of disc herniation is called _______.
Bulging
Name the lifestyle changes that can help prevent disc herniation.
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Proper lifting techniques
- Ergonomic adjustments
These changes can reduce the risk of developing disc-related issues.
Which type of herniation compresses the spinal cord?
Central Herniation
What are the potential symptoms of spinal nerve compression caused by a herniated disc?
- Sharp or burning pain
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Muscle weakness (rare)
These symptoms may vary in intensity and duration depending on the severity of the herniation.
Fill in the blank: The _______ stage of disc herniation involves the nucleus pulposus leaking out of the disc.
Extrusion
What is the focus of the study by Vergroesen et al. (2015)?
Mechanics and biology in intervertebral disc degeneration
The study discusses how mechanical and biological factors contribute to a vicious circle in disc degeneration.
