Spinal Deformity
Skeletal irregularities place strain on the vertebrae and supporting muscles, tendons, ligaments and tissues supported by spinal column. These irregularities include scoliosis, a curving of the spine to the side; kyphosis, in which the normal curve of the upper back is severely rounded; lordosis, an abnormally accentuated arch in the lower back; back extension, a bending backward of the spine; and back flexion, in which the spine bends forward.
Spinal deformities can affect people of all ages but are most common in adolescents. The cause of these conditions are unknown, but abnormal bone and muscle growth are thought to be a contributing factor.
Spinal deformities become serious when they progress and threaten to cause severe pain and/or permanent disability. In other cases, some people with spinal deformity may not even know they have it. Treatment of these conditions aims at minimizing progression of the disease and preventing further growth.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is typically a painless condition that causes an abnormal curvature in the spine. This will often create a rotation of the spine and rib cage, which creates asymmetry of the shoulders, trunk, and waist. Although most cases of scoliosis are mild, severe scoliosis can often be disabling. Certain conditions can help cause scoliosis such as cerebral palsy, but in most cases the cause of scoliosis is unknown.
Lordosis
Lordosis is a condition consisting of an excessive inward curve of the spine which causes the body to improperly distribute mechanical stress from movement such as walking. This condition can effect all ages and usually appears in the lower back but sometimes it is present in the neck. Lordosis found in the lower back can give the person an exaggerated posture, which can affect movement and cause pain as well. Some of the factors that can contribute to lordosis include inflammation of intervertebral discs, kyphosis, osteoporosis and obesity. Lordosis is not guaranteed to need medical attention, but when the curve becomes fixed it is advised to see a spinal specialist.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis and lordosis are types of spinal deformities. While slight curvature of the spine is normal and healthy, there are some cases where it is over-pronounced and can cause both cosmetic deformity and health risks. When the spine curves inward too much in the low back, it is called lordosis. When the spine in the shoulder blade or mid-spine area has too much forward curve, or too much of a hump, it is called kyphosis. Kyphosis most often occurs in the thoracic area of the spine.
Flatback Syndrome
Kyphosis and lordosis are types of spinal deformities. While slight curvature of the spine is normal and healthy, there are some cases where it is over-pronounced and can cause both cosmetic deformity and health risks. When the spine curves inward too much in the low back, it is called lordosis. When the spine in the shoulder blade or mid-spine area has too much forward curve, or too much of a hump, it is called kyphosis. Kyphosis most often occurs in the thoracic area of the spine.