Chapter 32: Spinal Injury and Spine Motion Restriction

Vocabulary flashcards covering the structural and functional divisions of the nervous system, mechanisms of spinal injury, and medical conditions related to the spinal column.

Peripheral nervous system

The part of the nervous system located outside of the brain and spinal cord that detects sensations such as pain.

Autonomic nervous system

The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions such as heartbeat and breathing.

Distraction

The mechanism of injury in which the vertebrae and spinal cord are stretched and pulled apart.

Flexion

The mechanism of injury in which there is severe forward movement of the head or the torso, such that it is curved excessively forward.

Vertebrae

The $33$ irregularly shaped bones that make up the spinal column.

Cervical spine

The division of the spinal column consisting of the first $7$ vertebrae, which form the neck.

Neurogenic shock

A condition that inhibits neural transmissions to the arteries and arterioles.

Spinal shock

The term used for neurogenic shock when it is caused specifically by a spinal cord injury.

Priapism

A persistent erection of the penis resulting from damage to the spinal nerves to the genitals.

Quadriplegia

The medical term used to describe complete paralysis of the entire body caused by damage to the spinal cord and neck.

Hemiplegia

Paralysis to only one side of the body, which is more common in head injuries and stroke.

Log roll

The move used to place a supine patient onto a long backboard for motion restriction.

Skeletal system

The system that gives the body its framework, supports and protects vital organs, and facilitates motion.

Cervical collar

The device that an EMT would apply first to help maintain spine motion restriction during extrication of a patient with suspected spinal injury.

Thoracic spine

The division of the spinal or vertebral column that contains $12$ vertebrae.