CanFitPro Personal Training Specialist Practice Test

Which muscle group is not facilitated in lower crossed syndrome?

1. Iliopsoas

2. Gastrocnemius

3. Deep cervical spine flexors

4. Lumbar portion of erector spinae

The correct answer is: Deep cervical spine flexors

Lower crossed syndrome is a postural imbalance that primarily affects the lower back and hips. In this condition, there is tightness and overactivity of the hip flexors and lumbar erector spinae, and weakness and underactivity of the gluteal muscles and abdominal muscles. This can lead to chronic back pain and dysfunction. In lower crossed syndrome, the deep cervical spine flexors, specifically the longus colli and longus capitis muscles, are typically weak and inhibited due to compensations from the overactive hip flexors and lumbar erector spinae. As a result, the deep cervical spine flexors are not facilitated and are not actively engaged in maintaining proper posture and stability in the neck and upper back. This lack of facilitation in the deep cervical spine flexors is one of the key imbalances seen in lower crossed syndrome. Therefore, the correct answer is