Injuries to the Head and Spine

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to head and spine injuries discussed in the Sports Medicine Essentials lecture.

Cerebral concussion

A type of brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head, causing alteration in brain function.

Meninges

Protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Afferent neurons

Neurons that carry sensory signals to the central nervous system.

Efferent neurons

Neurons that convey response signals from the central nervous system to the body.

Spinal cord

A central nervous system component, conducting impulses and connecting body parts to the brain.

Post-concussive symptoms

Symptoms that occur after a concussion, like headache, dizziness, and confusion.

Kyphosis

Abnormal curvature of the spine resulting in an excessive outward curve.

Spondylolisthesis

A condition where one vertebra slips forward over another.

Contusion

A bruise on the brain often resulting from a direct blow to the head.

Paralysis

A potential result of spinal injuries, leading to loss of movement and sensation.