What Is Lordosis?
What you need to know
The spine ordinarily curves at the neck, torso, and lower back area. Lordosis is a postural condition affecting the spine. Lordosis can most commonly find it in the Lumbar Spine (Lower Back) and Cervical Spine (Neck).
The pattern found in the neck can be seen with Forward Head Posture, a common pattern for those struggling with posture-based concerns. An exaggerated forward curve of the lumbar spine characterizes Lordosis at your lower back.
Lordosis causes the Lumbar Spine to be shaped more like a back to front “C”. Excessive Lordosis is usually caused by tight muscles, weak core muscles, spinal problems, or spinal injuries. This can be commonly seen as a characteristic of Lower Cross Syndrome.
The spine normally curves at the neck, torso, and lower back area. Lordosis is a postural condition affecting the spine. Lordosis can most commonly be found in the Lumbar Spine (Lower Back) and Cervical Spine (Neck).
Excessive Lordosis is a condition that can be most commonly found in the neck and lower back. It can be characterized by an exaggerated curvature at your low back, causing it to look more like a “C” due to tight muscles or spinal injuries.
Why can lordosis be an issue?
Excessive curvature of the spine can be an issue because it may cause the spine to collapse into a lordotic curve, putting pressure on discs and muscles. Leading to lower back pain.
In addition, the exaggerated curve may be painful, especially if you have osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease.
Lordosis might also:
- Place strain in your neck.
- Place too much stress on the hip joints, cause problems with walking (especially downstairs), and make it challenging to maintain good posture.
Lordosis can appear as a simple, non-symptomatic condition that can often be overlooked as an area of concern
There may also be ongoing issues with:
- walking,
- placing too much stress on hip joints, and
- make maintaining posture difficult.
It’s important not to let excessive Lordosis stay untreated because it could lead to more serious medical conditions.
Once Lordosis is identified, a qualified health professional can closely work with you on your treatment options.
Treatment may include physical therapy and exercises to help strengthen the back and relieve discomfort.
Some treatment options for Lordosis may include:
- physical therapy and posture based treatments.
- medication to reduce inflammation and pain – if discomfort is excessive.
- exercises that strengthen core muscles, and posture correction strategies to correct spinal alignment.
Having options for treating Lordosis allows you the possibility to focus on your personal goals and treatment outcomes.
PLEASE NOTE
The information provided should not replace the advice and expertise of an accredited health care provider. Any inquiry into posture care and any potential impact on your health and wellbeing should be directed to your health care provider.