Lordosis – Definition, Risk Factors and Treatment

Lordosis refers to an inward curvature of the spine. The cervical and lumbar regions of the spine are naturally lordotic, which allows the body’s anatomy to evenly distribute stress and weight. Lordosis can also refer to a spinal condition that is sometimes referred to as “swayback,” which occurs when the spine abnormally curves inward. It typically affects the lumbar region of the spine (the lower back) which can cause the appearance of an exaggerated posture.

Risk Factors

Some risk factors can contribute toward the development of an abnormal inward curvature of the spine. These risk factors include:

• Excess visceral fat
• Tense lower back muscles
• Weak hamstrings
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis
• Spondylolisthesis

It should be noted that many women develop lordosis during pregnancy because of the extra weight that is placed on the front of the body.

Treatment

Many patients can control the back pain associated with lordosis through conservative means such as over-the-counter pain medications and heat therapy. The most effective way to treat this condition typically lies in reversing its cause (such as strengthening hamstring muscles or losing weight). Medical treatment may be necessary, however, if the excess curvature is caused by a spinal condition such as spondylolisthesis.

Patients whose lordosis is causing pain and other symptoms should discuss treatment options with their doctor, who may recommend surgical treatment if symptoms fail to respond to conservative treatments such as rest, exercise, and medication. If your lordosis is compressing a spinal nerve and causing chronic pain, the surgeons at Laser Spine Institute may be able to treat the nerve compression with a safe, effective outpatient procedure. Contact Laser Spine Institute to receive a free MRI or CT scan review, and to learn more about the spinal conditions that can be treated with our endoscopic spinal procedures.