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Spinal Curvature
Spinal curvature is a normal part of the human anatomy. However, sometimes individuals might demonstrate abnormal curvatures which can cause potential health problems and even
chronic back pain
in rare insyances. While most abnormal spinal curves are not harmful, it is always wise to get a thorough exam from a qualified physician and have your curvature monitored regularly.
Normal Spinal CurvatureThe typical healthy human spine is curved in the shape of the letter S, when viewed from the side. The cervical region has a lordotic curve, as does the lumbar region. The thoracic area demonstrates a kyphotic curve. These curves are designed to distribute weight and force over the spinal structures. The typical spine should not have any side to side curves and should appear as a straight line when viewed from the front or the back.Abnormal Spinal CurvatureCongenital conditions, such as spina bifida often entail abnormal curvatures of the spinal column. The various forms of scoliosis create abnormal side to side curvatures which are generally not painful or problematic in most people. However, advanced scoliosis can be a major health concern and should be actively monitored by a specialist. Lordosis is an exaggeration of the normal lumbar or cervical curvature in the spine (hyperlordosis). It is typically harmless and even considered attractive in many cultures. Kyphosis is an exaggeration of the normal thoracic curvature in the middle back and is also generally non-problematic (hyperkyphosis). Both lordosis and kyphosis can become a health concern if the curvature is extreme. Lack of Spinal CurvesMany patients, such as myself, demonstrate a lack or one of more typical spinal curves. This is usually apparent in the lumbar and/or cervical spinal regions, when the patient does not maintain a normal lordosis (hypolordosis). This straight back or straight neck condition is often blamed for causing back ache, but is rarely the source of any significant or lasting discomfort. Temporary loss of spinal curves can be caused by any back injury, since the affected muscles might actually tighten up to the extent of straightening the normal curvatures in the spine.Spinal Curvature AdviceVery severe abnormal curvatures and loss of curvatures can spell big problems in rare instances. However, these events are the extreme exceptions to the rule and affect only a small percentage of individuals diagnosed with atypical curvatures. Most affected people have a harmless spinal curve (or lack of a spinal curve) and should not expect any pain from their conditions. That being said, atypical curves and lack of curves still act as common back pain scapegoats, although the diagnosis is virtually always incorrect. If your pain has been blamed on a relatively minor curvature abnormality, I strongly advise you to get a second opinion on the source of your back pain. I still have a lack of cervical and lumbar lordosis, but I have no more pain, despite a number of other spinal abnormalities in my anatomy…
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