Which statement about primary curvatures of the spine is true?

Study for the Ivy Tech APHY 101 - Skeletal System Test. Enhance your learning with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

Multiple Choice

Which statement about primary curvatures of the spine is true?

Explanation:
Primary curvatures are the thoracic and sacral kyphoses that are present from birth. They form during fetal development when the spine assumes a flexed position, so these curves exist before a person starts standing upright. In contrast, the secondary curvatures—cervical and lumbar lordosis—develop after birth as the child learns to hold up the head and stand. Therefore, the true statement is that primary curvatures are present at birth; they do not arise after upright posture. While aging can bring degenerative changes, the defining feature is that these curves are congenital.

Primary curvatures are the thoracic and sacral kyphoses that are present from birth. They form during fetal development when the spine assumes a flexed position, so these curves exist before a person starts standing upright. In contrast, the secondary curvatures—cervical and lumbar lordosis—develop after birth as the child learns to hold up the head and stand. Therefore, the true statement is that primary curvatures are present at birth; they do not arise after upright posture. While aging can bring degenerative changes, the defining feature is that these curves are congenital.

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