Kyphosis and lordosis, when curves become dangerous

To diagnose them, measuring the curvature angles of the spine is sufficient.

The spine is characterized by curves that alternate naturally. In the cervical and lumbar regions the curves are called lordosis, while in the dorsal and sacral regions the curves are called kyphosis.

It is precisely the alternation between more mobile curvatures (lordosis) and more rigid (kyphosis) that keeps the structure in balance. However, when the normal curvature of one of the portions of the vertical column is accentuated, we speak of hyperlordosis or hyperkyphosis.

Hyperkyphosis

It is a deformation of the spine that causes the back, at the level of the shoulder blades, to curve forward causing a “hump”, easily identifiable.

Pain, stiffness, hunched posture and tiredness are the characteristic symptoms.

The most common causes are:

• a bad posture even of a professional type and the use of PCs and tablets
• morphological abnormalities in the vertebrae (Scheuermann’s kyphosis)
• unusual development of the spine, for example during intrauterine life (congenital kyphosis)
• advanced age.

Hyperlordosis

It is characterized by sinking in the lumbar and cervical regions of the spine. This pathological curvature leads to assume a posture whereby the buttocks tend backwards and the abdominals forward as the pelvis and cervical vertebrae are “pushed” towards the center of gravity of the body.

It can be of constitutional origin or due to too rigid back muscles and weak abdominal muscles, so much so that it is not possible to keep the pelvis in a stable position. Severe overweight or pregnancy can worsen the situation.

Symptoms may be:

• a simple pain in the cervical or lumbar area
• a decrease in the sensitivity of the upper extremities.

In addition, a hyperlordosis can cause tension, muscle pain or spasms.

Diagnosis

To diagnose hyperlordosis or hyperkyphosis, a specialist visit is sufficient during which the observation and measurement of curvature angles is carried out.

Idiopathic causes, such as vertebral wedging or other congenital abnormalities, can be confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging.

Often hyperkyphosis and hyperlordosis coexist, compensating each other, without creating problems.

What you can do

Gymnastics is of great use. The exercises to correct an abnormal curvature of the back are based on two principles:

• extend or hyperextend the dorsal tract
• elevate and extra-rotate the shoulders.

Yoga and pilates involve numerous exercises that are very valid for the curved back and physiotherapy is also an excellent solution.

In addition, it is important to pay attention to your habits, not underestimating the way you sleep and sit. It is to be avoided, for example, the use of two pillows to sleep and, when sitting, it is good to always rest your back to maintain an upright position.

Drugs and surgery

When the pain is strong and persistent, painkillers are used to control it, but it is good to do so by always consulting your doctor.

Instead, the possibility of surgery is considered when the deformity is so severe that the cardio-respiratory system is compromised. Or, with aging, when a very painful secondary osteoarthritis may arise.

Back surgery is carried out exclusively in specialized centers and involves the use of screws and bars that are inserted between the vertebrae.