Neurophysiology Case Histories - Case 3

A 42-year-old male complained of severe, lower (lumbosacral) back pain which radiated to his left buttock, leg, and foot. This dull pain was intensified during coughing, sneezing, and bending. He also experienced muscle spasms in the left leg. There was mild sensory and motor loss in the left buttock and leg as well.

1. What is the disorder of this individual?

2. What major nerve is involved? From what spinal cord levels does this nerve emerge?

3. Define dermatome and described the dermatomes involved for this individual.

4. Why did coughing, sneezing, and bending intensify the dull pain?

5. Why was there both mild sensory and motor loss in the left buttock and leg?

6. What treatments may be of benefit to this individual?

Please enter your e-mail address:

If you would like your answers submitted to your instructor, please provide his/her e-mail address (or you must re-enter your e-mail address here for this form to work):

Please enter your full name:

A copy of your answers will also be submitted to your e-mail address so you may print the information.

Table of Contents

feedback form | permissions | international | locate your campus rep | request a review copy

digital solutions | publish with us | customer service | mhhe home

Copyright ©2001 The McGraw-Hill Companies.
Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of the The McGraw-Hill Companies.