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What is the most injured segment of the spine?

a) Cervical spine

b) Thoracic spine

c) Lumbar spine

d) Sacral spine

User Goldbullet
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The cervical region has the greatest range of motion for rotation in the vertebral column. The sacral spine, consisting of fused vertebrae, is more rigid and stable, making it less prone to injury. The lumbosacral disc is particularly at risk of injury due to its position and exposure to shearing forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

The region of the vertebral column with the greatest range of motion for rotation is the cervical region. The cervical spine allows for a wide range of motion including bending forward, backward, and twisting movements. This flexibility facilitates the head's extensive range of motion. In contrast, the sacral spine is among the least injured segments because it is more rigid and stable, consisting of fused vertebrae.

Injuries to the spinal column can vary greatly depending on the location and type of force applied. For instance, a traumatic event such as a motorcycle accident may result in a hemisection of the spinal cord, affecting movement and sensation. In this context, the lumbosacral disc, due to its position and exposure to shearing forces, stands a greater risk of injury, especially under increased curvature of the spine in certain populations.

User Daimajia
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