L3 PT - Posture and muscle function

What is the term used for the position where the least stress is placed on the joints and the rest of the body?

• Optimal posture

• Slouched posture

• Dynamic posture

• Static posture

Answer explanation

Optimal posture is the position that minimizes stress on joints and the body, promoting comfort and efficiency. It contrasts with slouched, dynamic, and static postures, which can lead to discomfort and strain.

What is the meaning of the term scoliosis?

• Excessive curve of the thoracic spine

• Crooked or bent spine

• Flattened curve of the lumbar spine

• Inward curve of the lumbar spine

Answer explanation

Scoliosis refers to a condition where the spine is crooked or bent, deviating from its normal alignment. This makes 'crooked or bent spine' the correct choice, as it accurately describes the nature of scoliosis.

Which muscles are inhibited in upper crossed syndrome?

• Scalene and sternocleidomastoid

• Deep neck flexors and serratus anterior

• Pectoralis major and minor

• Latissimus dorsi and teres major

Answer explanation

In upper crossed syndrome, the deep neck flexors and serratus anterior are inhibited due to postural imbalances. This leads to tightness in opposing muscle groups, such as the pectoralis major and minor.

Which muscles are dominant in lower crossed syndrome?

• Rectus abdominis and obliques

• Iliopsoas and lumbar erector spinae

• Gluteus medius and minimus

• Transversus abdominis and gluteus maximus

Answer explanation

In lower crossed syndrome, the iliopsoas and lumbar erector spinae are dominant due to their role in hip flexion and lumbar extension, leading to an imbalance that affects posture and movement.

Which posture is associated with a loss of flexibility and mobility in the lumbar spine?

• Sway back posture

• Slumped posture

• Flat back posture

• Hyperextended posture

Answer explanation

Flat back posture is characterized by a reduced lumbar curve, leading to stiffness and decreased flexibility in the lumbar spine. This contrasts with other postures that may not restrict mobility as significantly.

Which posture involves a posterior tilt of the pelvis?

• Flat back posture

• Sway back posture

• Slumped posture

• Hyperkyphotic posture

Answer explanation

Flat back posture is characterized by a posterior pelvic tilt, leading to a straightened lumbar spine. This contrasts with sway back, slumped, and hyperkyphotic postures, which do not involve this specific pelvic alignment.

Which posture is often seen in a sitting position?

• Flat back posture

• Sway back posture

• Slumped posture

• Hyperextended posture

Answer explanation

The slumped posture is commonly observed in sitting positions, characterized by rounded shoulders and a forward head. This contrasts with other postures like flat back or sway back, which are less typical when seated.

What does sway back posture often lead to in the upper back?

• Hyperlordosis

• Hyperkyphotic posture

• Flattened lumbar curve

• Tight hamstrings

Answer explanation

Sway back posture often results in an exaggerated curvature of the upper back, known as hyperkyphotic posture. This occurs as the pelvis tilts forward, leading to compensatory changes in the thoracic spine.

Which posture is described as having a flattened lumbar curve with a posterior lean?

• Flat back posture

• Sway back posture

• Slumped posture

• Hyperextended posture

Answer explanation

Sway back posture is characterized by a flattened lumbar curve and a posterior lean, distinguishing it from other postures like flat back, slumped, or hyperextended postures.

What is a feature of the slumped posture?

• Short and tight pectorals

• Lengthened hip flexors

• Diminished secondary curves of the spine

• Posterior deltoid lengthened

Answer explanation

A slumped posture is characterized by diminished secondary curves of the spine, leading to a more flattened back. This contrasts with the normal curvature, which is essential for proper spinal alignment.