Back Pain Back Pain Anatomy and Physiology

Question 1

Which spinal region consists of 5 vertebrae and bears the most body weight?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar

Answer

The lumbar region has 5 large vertebrae (L1–L5) and supports the majority of the body's weight.

Question 2

What structure lies between adjacent vertebral bodies and acts as a shock absorber?

Accepted Answer

Intervertebral disc

Answer

Intervertebral discs are fibrocartilaginous cushions that absorb compressive forces between vertebral bodies.

Question 3

The nucleus pulposus is composed primarily of which substance?

Accepted Answer

Proteoglycans and water

Answer

The nucleus pulposus contains a gel-like matrix of proteoglycans and water that provides hydraulic pressure resistance.

Question 4

Which muscle group is often called the 'core' and is critical for lumbar spine stabilization?

Accepted Answer

Transversus abdominis

Answer

The transversus abdominis is the deepest abdominal muscle and a primary stabilizer of the lumbar spine.

Question 5

The cauda equina is a collection of nerve roots located below which vertebral level?

Accepted Answer

L2

Answer

The spinal cord ends at the conus medullaris around L1–L2, and below that the cauda equina (nerve roots) continues.

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