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Lordosis

An illustration of human spine | Physiotherapy for Lordosis

What is Lordosis?

Everyone’s spine curves a little in the neck, upper back, and lower back. These curves, which create the spine’s S shape, are called the Lordotic (neck and lower back), and Kyphotic (upper back). They help your body absorb shock, support the weight of the head, stabilise and maintain its structure, move and bend flexibly. However, if the curve arches too far inward, it is referred to as Swayback. Lordosis can affect the lower back and neck. This can lead to excess pressure on the spine, causing pain and discomfort.

Lordosis in the lower back or lumbar spine is the most common type. The easiest way to check for this condition is to lie on your back on a flat surface. You should be able to slide your hand under your lower back, with little space to spare. Someone with Lordosis will have extra space between their back and the surface. If they have an extreme curve, there will be a visible C-like arch when they stand. From the side view, their abdomen and buttocks will stick out.

In a healthy spine, your neck should look like a very wide C, with the curve pointing toward the back of your neck. Cervical Lordosis is when your spine in the neck region does not curve as it normally should. This can mean there is too much of a curve, or the curve is running in the wrong direction, also called Reverse Cervical Lordosis.

Causes of Lordosis

Causes of Lordosis may include:
– Spondylolisthesis: Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition in which one of the lower vertebras slips forward onto the bone below.
– Achondroplasia: Achondroplasia is one of the most common types of Dwarfism.
– Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes a loss of bone density, hence increases your risk of fractures.
– Obesity: Obesity puts people at a higher risk for serious diseases, such as Type 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Cancer.

Symptoms of Lordosis

The most common symptom of Lordosis is muscle pain. When your spine curves abnormally, your muscles get pulled in different directions, causing them to tighten or spasm. If you have Cervical Lordosis, this pain may extend to your neck, shoulders, and upper back.

Other symptoms of Lordosis may include:
– Limited movement in the neck or lower back.
– Numbness and tingling sensation.
– Electric shock pains.
– Weak bladder control.
– Difficulty maintaining muscle control.

Lordosis Treatment

Physical therapy is helpful in treating Lordosis. Your therapist will customise a treatment plan to help with the pain. Treatment program will focus on building strength and flexibility, and increasing range of motion. Apart from manual therapy, exercises that help strengthen your weak muscle groups and treat the specific causes of your Lordosis will be prescribed. Functional training will also be taught to manage the pain. If in doubt, please seek professional advice.

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