09/06/2024
All my life I’ve had people either compliment me on my perfect posture or tease me for “sticking out my butt and boobs”. Only to realize once I became a massage therapist… My posture was not perfect. And the reason it appeared as if I was sticking out certain areas of my body was due to lordosis. I’ve had this issue as far back as I can remember. The longer it’s put off. The more difficult and painful it is to correct. There are ways other than surgery to correct it. I am currently working with a pelvic floor therapist at PSL Health Center. Slowly getting there. On my way to perfect posture!
Lordosis: A Spinal Curvature
Lordosis is a spinal condition characterized by an inward curve of the lower back. It's often referred to as a "swayback." This curvature is natural to some extent, but when it becomes excessive, it can lead to discomfort or pain.
Types of Lordosis
Primary lordosis: This is the natural curve present in the lumbar spine.
Secondary lordosis: This occurs when the spine develops an abnormal curve due to other conditions.
Causes of Lordosis
Congenital defects: Some people are born with lordosis.
Posture: Poor posture can contribute to or worsen lordosis.
Osteoporosis: Weakening of the bones can lead to lordosis.
Spondylolisthesis: This condition, where a vertebra slips forward over another, can cause lordosis.
Certain diseases: Conditions like muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy can affect spinal curvature.
Symptoms of Lordosis
Back pain
Fatigue
Stiffness
Difficulty walking or standing
Treatment for Lordosis
Treatment for lordosis depends on the severity and underlying cause. It may include:
Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the core muscles and improve posture.
Braces or corsets: In some cases, these can help correct the curvature.
Medications: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature.
