National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which part of the cervical intervertebral disc is the weakest?

1. Anterolateral

2. An anterior

3. Lateral

4. Posterior

The correct answer is: Posterior

The posterior part of the cervical intervertebral disc is considered the weakest area. This is primarily due to its anatomy and the roles it plays in spinal integrity. The intervertebral discs consist of an outer fibrous ring called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like core known as the nucleus pulposus. The posterior aspect of the cervical intervertebral disc contains a weaker arrangement of fibers and is less reinforced compared to the anterolateral aspects. This anatomical characteristic makes it more susceptible to injury and herniation. In addition to its structural weakness, the posterior region is also positioned adjacent to important neural structures, including the spinal cord and nerve roots. This proximity, combined with its inherent weakness, can lead to significant clinical repercussions if this area is compromised, such as in the case of a disc herniation which may impact spinal nerves. Other areas, like the anterolateral and anterior parts, have a more robust composition to withstand the stresses placed on the cervical spine during activities such as bending and twisting, making them stronger and less prone to injury. Therefore, the posterior part's combination of structural weakness and anatomical position highlights its vulnerability in the cervical intervertebral disc.