Lordóza

Lordóza, or lordosis, refers to the inward curvature of the spine. It occurs naturally in two regions of the spine—the cervical and the lumbar—where the vertebral column curves toward the belly in a convex anterior direction. When the curvature in these regions becomes excessive, the condition is described as hyperlordosis; when the curve is reduced or reversed, it is called hypolordosis or loss of lordosis. Physiologic lordosis is common and usually not problematic, but significant deviations can cause symptoms and may require treatment.

Hyperlordosis is often related to muscular imbalance, postural habits, obesity, or pregnancy, and can be associated with anterior pelvic tilt. Structural causes include congenital vertebral anomalies, spinal deformities, or conditions that affect the spine’s alignment. Hypolordosis can result from muscle tightness or degenerative changes and may accompany other spinal conditions.

Common symptoms of problematic lordosis include chronic back pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and sometimes nerve-related symptoms if the curvature affects nearby neural structures. Diagnosis typically involves a medical history and physical examination, followed by imaging such as X-rays. In some cases MRI or CT scans are used to assess soft tissues and neighboring structures and to measure specific angles of curvature.

Treatment aims to alleviate pain, correct biomechanics, and prevent progression. Conservative approaches are preferred and include physical therapy focusing on core strengthening, abdominal and hip-flexor stretching, postural training, weight management, and analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications as needed. Bracing is rarely used for lordosis alone but may be considered in certain structural cases or growing children. Surgical intervention is uncommon and reserved for severe, refractory, or neurologically compromising deformities. Prognosis varies with the underlying cause and response to therapy.