The spine is a complex structure whose main functions are to support the body and protect the spinal cord. To fulfill its functions, the spine is composed of natural curvatures scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis. Unfortunately, these natural curvatures can become abnormal or excessive and generate significant health problems.

Scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis

To help you understand and avoid confusion, here is a clear explanation of the terms:

Your spine has three main curvatures: scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis. These curvatures allow your spine to support the weight of your body. Each curvature has a specific function and contributes to the proper functioning of your back, however these natural curvatures can also be pathological.

Scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis: Natural curvatures

There are 4 natural curvatures in total, thoracic kyphosis, sacral kyphosis, cervical lordosis and lumbar lordosis. Cervical and lumbar curvatures form lordosis and thoracic and sacral curvatures form kyphosis.

Kyphosis

2 kyphosis-type curvatures: Thoracic kyphosis , which is located at the chest (T1 to T12) and which is an outward curvature. Then Sacral Kyphosis , an outward curvature located at the sacrum and coccyx (S1 and lower).

Natural kyphosis-like curves allow your spine to support the weight of your head and upper body.

Lordosis

2 Lordosis type curvatures: Cervical Lordosis , an inward curvature located at the neck (C1 to C7) and lumbar Lordosis which is located at the lower back (L1 to L5) and which is an inward curvature.

Natural lordotic curves are essential for posture and mobility. They allow your spine to support your body weight effectively.

Scoliosis

Unlike lordosis and kyphosis which are natural curvatures of the spine, scoliosis is often considered a pathological condition, as it is a deviation of the spine to the left or right, in the shape of an ''S'' or ''C''.

Mild scoliosis can sometimes be present without serious problems, however severe scoliosis can lead to many complications such as breathing problems, pain or functional limitations.

Pathologies of curvature of the spine

Although natural, spinal curvatures, scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis can become pathological, causing deformations that negatively impact your posture and overall health.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis being a deformation of the spine in the shape of an "S" or "C" visible when looking at the back, always indicates an abnormality. This abnormality can be a functional scoliosis, caused by abnormal muscular tensions of the paraspinal muscles which impact the curvature, or a structural scoliosis, this one is much more serious it is due to a malformation of the bones of the spine.

Functional scoliosis can be caused by prolonged poor posture, leg length discrepancy, or sciatica. Structural scoliosis can be caused by genetic factors, neuromuscular diseases (such as muscular dystrophy), or congenital malformations of the vertebrae.

Kyphosis

Kyphosis, also called hyperkyphosis, is an exacerbation of natural kyphosis, which results in a stooped posture or "hunchback posture". This pathology can present in the form of hyperkyphosis, excessive backward curvature of the thoracic spine or Buffalo hump, pronounced curvature of the first dorsal vertebrae or the last cervical vertebra.

The causes of hyperkyphosis are usually aging, poor posture over the long term, degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis with vertebral fractures as well as Scheuermann's disease (abnormal growth of the vertebrae in adolescents). The buffalo hump is due to the accumulation of fat at the back of the neck, often associated with disorders such as Cushing's syndrome.

Lordosis

Lordosis, or more precisely hyperlordosis, corresponds to an excessive curvature of the lumbar region, called "lumbar hyperlordosis". There is also cervical hyperlordosis or "cervical stiffening", which is characterized by a reduction in the natural curvature of the neck. Then, cervical hyperlordosis is a reduction in the natural curvature of the neck.

Lumbar hyperlordosis can be caused by poor posture, pregnancy, obesity, weak abdominal muscles or spondylolisthesis, while cervical hyperlordosis is often caused by neck trauma or congenital conditions.

Scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis: Possible treatments

Regular monitoring and follow-up

It is essential to monitor the progression of your curvature with a professional by having regular x-rays and clinical examinations, to find a treatment adapted to your situation.

Orthopedic corset

For people who are growing, such as teenagers, the orthopedic corset can help limit the progression of the curve. The orthopedic corset should be worn regularly according to the specific instructions of your doctor. The corset helps to adopt a good posture whatever your condition.

Rehabilitation and physiotherapy

Rehabilitation and physical therapy can help you strengthen your back muscles, improve your posture and increase your flexibility. Physical therapy is recognized as very effective for kyphosis regardless of the cause, lordosis and scoliosis it helps relieve pain and teach you how to manage your body and adopt good posture during your daily activities.

If you want to know more about how to have good posture to prevent pain and preserve your spine: How to adopt good posture on a daily basis?

For more information on physiotherapy we recommend you consult the French Federation of Physiotherapists and Rehabilitation Therapists (FFMKR).

Physiotherapy and postural exercises

Physiotherapy and postural exercises can help you correct any muscle imbalances and improve the alignment of your spine. Physiotherapy is a paramedical discipline that helps treat dysfunctions of the human body through manual techniques.

Weight management and lifestyle changes

A healthy lifestyle with a suitable diet and physical activity greatly help to prevent the risks of unnatural deformation of the spine. In addition, adopting a correct posture and using ergonomic furniture are essential elements to prevent back problems and health in general.

To find out how to adopt good posture, read our article: How to adopt good posture every day?

If you would like more information on ergonomic furniture and how to set up an ergonomic workstation, please read our article: Ergonomic workstation: How to set up your office?

Surgery

Surgery may be used as a last resort, when all other treatments are ineffective. Surgical procedures are performed to correct the curvature of the spine and stabilize it, reducing pain. For more information about spinal surgery, see the Parisian Back Institute.

Strengthening and stretching exercises

To maintain your flexibility and strengthen your back, it is important to incorporate strengthening exercises and stretches into your daily routine and stay active. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a doctor may recommend certain exercises to manage your scoliosis, kyphosis, or lordosis.

If you want exercises to prevent back pain and improve your posture, check out our articles:

10 Exercises with a Ball at the Office: For an Active and Balanced Life

The 12 Best Office Stretches to Relieve Stress and Tension

Finally, scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis are natural curvatures of the spine that are essential for maintaining the body. However, in some cases, these curvatures of the spine can cause diseases, which is why you must adopt healthy lifestyle habits and good posture on a daily basis to preserve your spine.