Most likely, you have some understanding that your spine is made up of many small vertebrae, which essentially are small bones stacked on top of each other with discs separating them in between.
When viewed from a side perspective, a healthy spine has a gentle curve that helps the spine to absorb impact from the motion of your body.
From a rear vantage point, the spine should look straight from the neck to the small of your back where it meets the hip bones.
If it does not appear to be straight, then this means the spine is misaligned.
Curvy Spine Means Misalign
Abnormal spines often appear curvy or exaggerated. There are three primary types of spine curvature disorders. They are:
- Kyphosis – Displays a rounded back with 50+ degrees of curvature
- Lordosis – Characterized by a “swayback” curve of significantly hunched over at the lower back
- Scoliosis – An “S” shaped or “C” shaped curve that runs sideways through the spine
Symptoms of these three issues vary, depending on the degree of the curve.
For example, someone with kyphosis might have a noticeable head bending forward in relation to where their spine should be, which is also called “postural kyphosis.”
The person may not have noticeable back pain, but may be uncomfortable with prolonged sitting, standing or doing certain physical activities.
A person with lordosis, on the other hand, may have a noticeable swayback, and with a lot of back discomfort.
The butt will seem more projected, as well as having a big gap between the back and a hard surface when lying down.
Someone with lordosis will be less mobile or have difficulty with range of motion.
Scoliosis patients may first notice a problem when they often lean or favor one side of their body for standing or sitting.
They may have an uneven hip or waist and shoulder blades, often with one shoulder seeming higher than the other.
How Do Spine Curvature Disorders Occur?
Depending on which of the three types of curvature the patient has, there are a number of health issues that may attribute to the curvature and/or misalignment.
Obesity is a common culprit because the extra weight can put so much direct pressure on the spine, as well as lack of physical exercise.
Another cause can stem from an accident, when the vertebrae of the lower back slip forward and shift the spine out of whack.
Yet another cause can stem from inflammation between the discs and bones, either through an infection or a reaction to something external. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes curvature of the spine.
Can Spinal Curvature Disorders be Reversed or Treated?
In some cases, yes!
However, treatment for spinal curvature is evaluated by a chiropractor to determine the level of severity. Some types cannot be treated at all, while others may require surgery to correct.
It is best to consult with an experienced chiropractor in Providence, RI to assess your circumstances and degree of pain.
Sometimes it can be managed through chiropractic care, lifestyle changes and exercise, electrical stimulation, massage, nutritional supplements and other means recommended by a chiropractor.
