Which postural deviation is listed for mid-lumbar L3?

• A. Increased lumbar lordosis
• B. Kyphosis
• C. Scoliosis
• D. Flat back

Answer: (A)

Postural deviations tied to lesion level in the lower spine often manifest as how the body compensates for trunk and pelvic control. For a mid-lumbar level like L3, the abdominal and paraspinal muscles can be weaker, so the body tends to tilt the pelvis forward and increase the inward curve of the lower spine to maintain balance and an upright stance. This results in increased lumbar lordosis.

Kyphosis describes an exaggerated forward rounding of the thoracic spine, not a lumbar pattern, and scoliosis is a lateral curvature, which isn’t the typical signature at this specific level. Flat back is a reduction of lumbar curvature, opposite to what’s expected when trunk control is compromised at mid-lumbar levels.