According to a 2021 study, the prevalence of young people with postural disorders, such as lordosis and scoliosis, is estimated to reach 40%. Continue reading and learn everything about lordosis and scoliosis, two conditions that affect the alignment of the spine.
What are lordosis and scoliosis?
Lordosis and scoliosis are conditions that affect the spine. Both are changes in the natural curvature of the spine, but they have different characteristics and causes.
Lordosis
Lordosis is a curvature of the spine that occurs in the cervical region (neck) and, mainly, in the lumbar region (lower back). So, when viewed from the side, the spine presents an “inward” curve.
This curvature is normal in many cases (and we all have it), but, depending on the degree, the curvature can be much accentuated and cause intense pain, being called hyperlordosis.
This condition is caused by congenital factors, such as poor vertebral formation from birth, or acquired throughout life, such as inadequate posture, obesity, osteoporosis, or weakness of the abdominal and back muscles. Additionally, in some cases, injuries or certain medical conditions, such as pregnancy, can also lead to the development of lordosis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lordosis can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of curvature. In mild cases, for example, lordosis does not cause significant discomfort. However, in more pronounced curvatures, symptoms may include back pain, difficulty standing correctly and breathing problems in extreme cases.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is another condition that affects the spine, but unlike lordosis, it involves an abnormal lateral curvature. Instead of having an inward curve, as in lordosis, the spine of a person with scoliosis may have an “S” or “C” shape when viewed from the back.
The causes of scoliosis can be divided into two main groups: idiopathic and secondary.
- Idiopathic scoliosis occurs without a clear cause and is most common in adolescents during their growth spurt.
- Secondary scoliosis is the result of other conditions or injuries, such as congenital vertebral malformation, spinal injuries or neuromuscular diseases.
Symptoms
As with lordosis, scoliosis symptoms also vary depending on the severity of the curvature. In mild cases, scoliosis may not cause significant pain or discomfort. But in more serious cases, it can lead to visible back deformities, uneven shoulder and hip alignment, and even pain and breathing difficulties.
Treatment of lordosis and scoliosis
Both treatments (for lordosis or scoliosis) depend on the severity of the spinal curvature. While mild cases can be corrected with the use of orthopedic braces, severe cases may require surgical intervention.
In general, practicing physical exercises to strengthen the abdominal and back muscles may be enough to alleviate the symptoms of lordosis and scoliosis, as well as prevent the condition from appearing or worsening.
Therefore, only a qualified professional can recommend the best treatment for each case.
Despite being common conditions, symptoms may take time to appear, only appearing in more advanced cases. Therefore, care for the health of the spine and preventive measures are essential.
How to prevent the emergence of postural disorders, such as lordosis and scoliosis?
It is not possible to completely prevent the appearance of lordosis and scoliosis. But it is possible to adopt practices that minimize risks:
1. Maintain proper posture during daily activities
When watching television, accessing the computer, studying, washing dishes and using the phone, for example.
2. Exercise regularly to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles
As mentioned, muscle strengthening is an excellent option for both the treatment and prevention of lordosis and scoliosis.
3. Avoid habits that are harmful to your spine, such as sitting for a long time or carrying weight incorrectly
Any and all movements in everyday life must involve good posture. For example, when lifting a shopping bag, dragging furniture to clean underneath, and picking up a child.
4. Use ergonomic furniture to ensure good posture at work and at home
To sit correctly, consider:
- Aligned column;
- Distributed weight;
- Use of cushions in hard accents;
- Legs apart and in natural alignment;
- Feet touching the floor comfortably;
- Shoulders back;
- Monitor height aligned with the eyes.
5. Maintain a healthy weight to avoid putting stress on your spine
Excess weight places an additional load on the vertebral structures, causing postural problems not only such as lordosis and scoliosis, but also herniated discs and other conditions.
Adopt a balanced lifestyle with adequate nutrition and regular physical activity to preserve spinal health and prevent possible future complications. Additionally, always consult a healthcare professional for specific, personalized guidance.