Back Pain Back Pain Anatomy and Biomechanics 2

Question 1

Which ligament runs along the posterior surface of the vertebral bodies inside the spinal canal?

Accepted Answer

Posterior longitudinal ligament

Answer

The posterior longitudinal ligament lines the posterior aspect of vertebral bodies within the canal and partially resists disc herniation.

Question 2

The facet joints of the lumbar spine are oriented primarily in which plane, limiting rotation?

Accepted Answer

Sagittal

Answer

Lumbar facet joints are oriented in the sagittal plane, which allows flexion/extension but restricts axial rotation.

Question 3

Which vertebral level marks the termination of the spinal cord in most adults?

Accepted Answer

L1-L2

Answer

The spinal cord typically ends at the L1-L2 level as the conus medullaris; below this level lies the cauda equina.

Question 4

What biomechanical change occurs in the lumbar discs when a person moves from standing to sitting?

Accepted Answer

Intradiscal pressure increases

Answer

Sitting increases intradiscal pressure compared to standing because spinal flexion shifts load anteriorly and compresses discs more.

Question 5

Which structure is disrupted in a spondylolysis?

Accepted Answer

Pars interarticularis

Answer

Spondylolysis is a stress fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis, the bony bridge between the superior and inferior articular processes.

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