Spine Quick-Reference
Pathology-first. Tap a root or a condition for the high-yield card.
Nerve Roots
Common Pathologies
The one rule: a normal (posterolateral) herniation pinches the root exiting below the disc. L4–L5 → L5 · L5–S1 → S1. A far-lateral one pinches the exiting root at that level instead. L5 + S1 = ~80–90% of all pinched roots.
L4
L5
S1
Moves
Feels
Reflex
Bedside test
Usual culprit
Disc Herniation
Spinal Stenosis
Spondylolisthesis
⚠ Cauda Equina
Feel
What broke
Fix ladder
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Educational quick-reference, not medical advice. Clinical facts simplified for learning. Confirm specifics against a current source.