#1
Which of the following structures protects the spinal cord?
Vertebrae
ExplanationVertebrae form the bony structure that surrounds and protects the spinal cord.
#2
What is the medical term for a slipped or ruptured disc in the spine?
Herniated disc
ExplanationA herniated disc refers to a condition where the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes through the tougher outer layer, causing pain and discomfort.
#3
What is the function of the spinal cord?
To transmit signals between the brain and the rest of the body
ExplanationThe spinal cord serves as the primary pathway for transmitting sensory and motor signals between the brain and the body.
#4
Which of the following is a risk factor for developing osteoporosis-related spinal fractures?
Smoking
ExplanationSmoking is a known risk factor for osteoporosis, which can increase the likelihood of spinal fractures.
#5
Which part of the spine is most commonly affected by disc herniation?
Lumbar spine
ExplanationThe lumbar spine, the lower part of the back, is the most common site for disc herniation due to its weight-bearing and mobility demands.
#6
What is the term for the abnormal sideways curvature of the spine?
Scoliosis
ExplanationScoliosis refers to an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, which can vary in severity and cause complications.
#7
What is the term for the abnormal forward curvature of the spine, often seen in the lower back?
Lordosis
ExplanationLordosis refers to an excessive inward curvature of the spine, commonly observed in the lower back region.
#8
Which of the following conditions is characterized by the excessive curvature of the spine?
Scoliosis
ExplanationScoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, often appearing as an 'S' or 'C' shape.
#9
What is the main symptom of spinal stenosis?
Numbness or weakness in the legs
ExplanationSpinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal, typically leads to symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the legs due to pressure on the nerves.
#10
What is the condition characterized by inflammation of the joints between the vertebrae of the spine?
Ankylosing spondylitis
ExplanationAnkylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine, leading to fusion and stiffness of the vertebrae.
#11
Which of the following is NOT a symptom of a spinal tumor?
Nausea and vomiting
ExplanationWhile spinal tumors can cause various symptoms, nausea and vomiting are not typically associated with them.
#12
What condition is caused by the compression of nerve roots exiting the spinal cord?
Sciatica
ExplanationSciatica results from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve roots, often causing pain, numbness, and tingling along the path of the nerve.
#13
What is the primary treatment for spinal fractures due to osteoporosis?
Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty
ExplanationVertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to stabilize spinal fractures, particularly those caused by osteoporosis.
#14
What condition is characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal?
Spinal stenosis
ExplanationSpinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, often leading to compression of the spinal cord or nerves and resulting in symptoms like pain and weakness.
#15
Which of the following is NOT a common cause of spinal cord injury?
Obesity
ExplanationObesity, while associated with various health issues, is not a direct cause of spinal cord injury.
#16
What is the most common type of spinal cord injury?
Incomplete
ExplanationIncomplete spinal cord injuries are more common than complete injuries, where some function and sensation below the level of injury remain.
#17
Which of the following is a degenerative condition characterized by the breakdown of the spinal discs?
Degenerative disc disease
ExplanationDegenerative disc disease involves the gradual wear and tear of the intervertebral discs, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
#18
What condition is characterized by the abnormal narrowing of the spaces within the spine where the spinal cord and nerves are located?
Spinal stenosis
ExplanationSpinal stenosis refers to the abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal, which can lead to compression of the spinal cord or nerves and subsequent symptoms.
#19
Which of the following is a rare congenital disorder characterized by incomplete closure of the spinal column?
Spina bifida
ExplanationSpina bifida is a neural tube defect where the spinal column doesn't close completely during fetal development, leading to various complications.