What impact does a complete injury at T10 have on lower extremity function?

A complete injury at the T10 spinal cord level results in a significant functional impact on the lower extremities, leading to the characteristic presentation of lower limb paralysis. Specifically, injuries at or above the T10 level typically result in paraplegia, which means there is a complete loss of motor and sensory function in the lower limbs due to the disruption of nerve signals.

While option D mentions spasticity affecting lower limb control, this may not be the most accurate representation of the consequences of a complete injury. Incomplete injuries at this level could potentially lead to spasticity, which arises when some pathways remain intact, allowing for abnormal reflex activity. However, with a complete injury, the effect would primarily be paralysis without the ability to control movements in the lower limbs, as the neural pathways responsible for these functions are entirely disrupted.

The correct answer would acknowledge the total paralysis of the lower limbs, which is the hallmark of a T10 complete spinal cord injury. Those with complete T10 injuries rely heavily on assistive devices for mobility, and ambulation without assistance is generally unachievable due to the loss of muscle function and voluntary control over the lower body.