Group Fitness Instructor

Category - Emergencies

Over 80% of the adult population will experience back pain at some phase of life. One of the most distressing sources of pain, disk herniation, can create a shooting or burning sensation and/or paresthesias (abnormal sensations, such as tingling) in the buttock, upper and lower leg. Which levels of the spine are the MOST susceptible to herniation?
  1. C6-T1
  2. T11-L1
  3. L3-L5
  4. L4-S1
Explanation
Answer: D - Most disk herniations occur between the two lowest lumbar vertebra (L4 and L5) and between the lumbar-sacral junction (L5 and S1).Not all disk herniations are symptomatic, but the most severe cases can cause weakness in the legs - often experienced as tripping or foot drop -- and a sudden onset of incontinence of bowel or bladder. These later symptoms should be reported to a physician immediately as they may represent central cord compression and create permanent nerve damage.
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