Which standing posture deformity is listed as a common postural abnormality in spina bifida?

Which standing posture deformity is listed as a common postural abnormality in spina bifida?

• A. Standing crouched posture
• B. Standing upright with normal posture
• C. Standing with exaggerated lumbar lordosis only
• D. Standing with valgus knees

Answer: (A)

In spina bifida, weakness or paralysis of the lower limbs often leads to muscle imbalances that cause flexion contractures at the hip and knee. When someone with this pattern stands, these tight flexors pull the hips and knees into flexed positions, producing a crouched, forward-leaning posture rather than an upright stance. This crouched standing posture is a common postural abnormality listed for spina bifida because it directly reflects the typical combination of hip/knee flexion contractures and weakness seen in these individuals. Other described postures—standing upright with normal posture, standing with exaggerated lumbar lordosis only, or standing with valgus knees—do not capture the characteristic pattern as consistently as the crouched position. Management often focuses on stretching to reduce contractures, strengthening of opposing muscles, and use of standing frames or orthoses to improve alignment and functional standing.

In spina bifida, weakness or paralysis of the lower limbs often leads to muscle imbalances that cause flexion contractures at the hip and knee. When someone with this pattern stands, these tight flexors pull the hips and knees into flexed positions, producing a crouched, forward-leaning posture rather than an upright stance. This crouched standing posture is a common postural abnormality listed for spina bifida because it directly reflects the typical combination of hip/knee flexion contractures and weakness seen in these individuals. Other described postures—standing upright with normal posture, standing with exaggerated lumbar lordosis only, or standing with valgus knees—do not capture the characteristic pattern as consistently as the crouched position. Management often focuses on stretching to reduce contractures, strengthening of opposing muscles, and use of standing frames or orthoses to improve alignment and functional standing.