lordoses

Lordoses are inward curvatures of the spine that occur in several regions and contribute to the overall sagittal alignment of the vertebral column. The term is used in the plural to describe the presence of such curvatures across regions, most commonly the cervical and lumbar regions. These lordotic curves contrast with kyphotic segments, such as the thoracic spine, which curve outward.

Normal lordosis includes two primary regions: cervical lordosis, which develops as a child starts to hold the head upright, and lumbar lordosis, which develops with standing and walking. Together, these curves help balance the spine and transmit load through the vertebral column during movement and posture.

Variations in lordosis can be physiological or pathological. Hyperlordosis refers to an excessive inward curvature and can be seen with obesity, pregnancy, muscular imbalance, or certain spinal conditions. Hypolordosis, or loss of lordosis (sometimes described as a straight back), can result from degenerative disc disease, muscle spasm, or postural faults. Abnormal lordoses may contribute to pain or altered gait and can be part of broader spinal deformities.

Diagnosis typically involves clinical examination and imaging. Radiographs quantify the lordotic angle, often using the Cobb technique, while MRI or CT may be used to assess underlying causes such as disc disease or nerve compression.

Management depends on the cause and severity. Conservative care includes physical therapy to strengthen the core and back muscles, posture education, weight management, and pain relief. Bracing may be used in growing individuals with certain deformities. Surgical intervention is uncommon and usually reserved for severe, progressive deformities or neurologic compromise.