Textbook Question
Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
d. The sacral, coccygeal, and cervical vertebrae are fused in an adult.
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7. The Skeletal System
The Spine
1:31 minutesProblem 15
Textbook Question
Mr. Wright had polio as a boy and was partially paralyzed in one lower limb for over a year. Although no longer paralyzed, he now has a severe lateral curvature of the lumbar spine. Explain what has happened and identify his condition.
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Understand the background: Polio is a viral disease that can affect the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis. In Mr. Wright's case, the paralysis in one lower limb likely caused muscle atrophy and imbalance during his developmental years.
Explain the impact of muscle imbalance: When one limb is weaker or paralyzed, the muscles on that side of the body may not provide adequate support to the spine. This can lead to uneven forces acting on the vertebral column, especially during growth, potentially causing abnormal spinal curvature.
Identify the condition: Severe lateral curvature of the lumbar spine is characteristic of scoliosis. Scoliosis can develop due to muscle imbalances, structural abnormalities, or other factors affecting spinal alignment.
Discuss the long-term effects: Even though Mr. Wright is no longer paralyzed, the scoliosis may persist because the spine's curvature became fixed over time. This condition can lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, or other complications if left untreated.
Highlight potential treatments: Management of scoliosis may include physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles, bracing to prevent further curvature, or surgical intervention in severe cases. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to address any progression or associated symptoms.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Polio and Its Effects
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a viral disease that can lead to paralysis and muscle weakness. In Mr. Wright's case, the polio infection caused partial paralysis in one lower limb, which likely resulted in muscle atrophy and imbalance. This initial paralysis can lead to compensatory changes in posture and movement, affecting the spine and overall musculoskeletal health.
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Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. In Mr. Wright's situation, the severe lateral curvature of the lumbar spine may have developed as a compensatory mechanism due to the muscle imbalances and weakness from his previous polio infection. This curvature can lead to discomfort and further complications if not addressed.
Muscle Imbalance and Postural Changes
Muscle imbalance occurs when one group of muscles is stronger or more developed than its opposing group, often leading to postural changes. In Mr. Wright's case, the weakness in one limb due to polio likely caused overuse of the opposite side, resulting in an uneven distribution of muscle strength. This imbalance can contribute to the development of scoliosis and other spinal deformities.
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