Review Sheet 9 15. What is a herniated disc? What problems might it cause? 16. Which two spinal curvatures are obvious at birth? and Under what conditions do the secondary curvatures develop? 17. Use the key to label the structures on the thoracic region of the vertebral column. intervertebral discs b. Key: a intervertebral foramina spinous prosesses d. thoracic vertebrae C. e. transverse processes Review Sheet 9 15. What is a herniated disc? What problems might it cause? 16. Which two spinal curvatures are obvious at birth? and Under what conditions do the secondary curvatures develop? 17. Use the key to label the structures on the thoracic region of the vertebral column. intervertebral discs b. Key: a intervertebral foramina spinous prosesses d. thoracic vertebrae C. e. transverse processes 3. provide levers against which muscles pull 4. provide an articulation point for the ribs 5. openings providing for exit of spinal nerves 6. structures that form an enclosu re for the spinal cord 7 structures that form the vertebral arch 12. Describe how a spinal nerve exits from the vertebral column. 13. Name two factors/structures that permit flexibility of the vertebral column. and 14. What kind of tissue makes up the intervertebral discs?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Answers:
15. What is a herniated disc? What problems might it cause?
A herniated disc, also called a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner portion (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness, often in the back, neck, or limbs. In severe cases, it may cause loss of bladder or bowel control.
16. Which two spinal curvatures are obvious at birth? Under what conditions do the secondary curvatures develop?
The primary curvatures present at birth are the thoracic and sacral curves. These are concave anteriorly and help accommodate the fetal position in the womb.
The secondary curvatures (cervical and lumbar) develop postnatally. The cervical curvature appears when a baby starts lifting its head, and the lumbar curvature forms when the baby begins to sit up and walk, supporting upright posture.
17. Labeling Structures on the Thoracic Region of the Vertebral Column:
- a. Intervertebral discs
- b. Intervertebral foramina
- c. Spinous processes
- d. Thoracic vertebrae
- e. Transverse processes
3-7 Matching:
- 3. Transverse processes (provide levers against which muscles pull)
- 4. Thoracic vertebrae (provide an articulation point for the ribs)
- 5. Intervertebral foramina (openings providing for exit of spinal nerves)
- 6. Vertebral foramen (structures that form an enclosure for the spinal cord)
- 7. Pedicles and laminae (structures that form the vertebral arch)
12. Describe how a spinal nerve exits from the vertebral column.
Spinal nerves exit the vertebral column through intervertebral foramina, which are openings formed between adjacent vertebrae. These nerves branch out from the spinal cord and pass through these spaces to innervate different body parts.
13. Name two factors/structures that permit flexibility of the vertebral column.
- Intervertebral discs – Their cushion-like structure absorbs shock and allows movement between vertebrae.
- Ligaments and facet joints – These structures help stabilize the vertebrae while still permitting motion.
14. What kind of tissue makes up the intervertebral discs?
Intervertebral discs are composed of fibrocartilage, a tough but flexible type of connective tissue. The discs have an outer layer called the annulus fibrosus (dense fibrocartilage) and an inner gel-like core called the nucleus pulposus (which provides cushioning and shock absorption).
Explanation (300 words):
The vertebral column, also known as the spine, is a flexible, segmented structure that provides support, mobility, and protection for the spinal cord. It consists of individual vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs, which are made of fibrocartilage. These discs function as shock absorbers and allow movement between vertebrae. The outer layer, the annulus fibrosus, is composed of dense fibrocartilage, which provides structural integrity, while the inner nucleus pulposus is a gel-like substance that absorbs compressive forces.
A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus pushes through a tear in the annulus fibrosus. This can lead to compression of nearby spinal nerves, resulting in pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. Severe cases can cause mobility issues or even nerve damage. Common causes of disc herniation include aging, improper lifting techniques, and injury.
The spinal curvatures help distribute body weight efficiently. The thoracic and sacral curvatures (primary curvatures) are present at birth, while the cervical and lumbar curvatures (secondary curvatures) develop as an infant gains head control and learns to walk. These curvatures contribute to posture and balance.
Spinal nerves exit through intervertebral foramina, small openings between vertebrae. Flexibility in the spine is possible due to intervertebral discs and facet joints, which allow controlled movement while maintaining stability. These features enable bending, twisting, and weight distribution. The vertebral column is essential for movement, posture, and nerve function, making spinal health crucial for overall well-being.