What is one characteristic of posterior cord syndrome?

The correct choice identifies dysfunction of the dorsal columns as a key characteristic of posterior cord syndrome. This condition primarily affects the posterior portion of the spinal cord, which contains the dorsal columns responsible for transmitting proprioception, vibration sense, and fine touch information from the body to the brain.

When the dorsal columns are compromised, the individual may experience impaired sensory modalities involving position sense, vibratory sensation, and fine touch discrimination. This dysfunction can lead to difficulties with coordination and balance, often described as a "clumsy" gait. As the dorsal columns are affected, it is crucial to understand that the motor pathways located in the anterior part of the spinal cord remain intact, which emphasizes that muscle control itself is not lost.

While other options may touch upon relevant symptoms or effects of different spinal cord injuries, they do not define the fundamental characteristic of posterior cord syndrome as well as the dysfunction of the dorsal columns does.