Lordosis

Lordosis (swayback) is an excessive inward curve in the lower back (lumbar) or neck (cervical). These parts of the spine normally have some lordosis, but when it becomes excessive, it can cause pain and a reduced range of motion. Problems can also occur from conditions that cause the spine to lose its normal lordotic curve.

Some possible causes of lordosis include:

• Kyphosis (hunchback), an exaggerated outward curve of the upper (thoracic) spine--the body compensates by increasing the normal lordosis to balance it
• Fractures from osteoporosis, which can cause the spine to become imbalanced
• Spondylolysthesis, where one vertebra slips over another
• Spinal fusion surgery, where the spine becomes rigid
• Long periods of poor posture
• Obesity, which puts extra pressure on the spine

Lordosis: Disorder or Symptom?

In the cases of osteoporosis and spondylolysthesis, lordosis is actually a symptom of a condition that is more serious. When the curve becomes severe, it can inhibit movement and cause pain resulting from nerve compression. Drugs and physical therapy are usually prescribed, but in rare cases, surgery may be in order. These surgeries are usually meant to address related problems and not the lordosis itself.

At The Bonati Institute, our compassionate staff of medical professionals will provide the utmost care for you during your visit. We have several options for advanced surgical procedures that can help the problems associated with lordosis. Only a few surgeons in the world can perform these procedures, and they are all at our institute, ready to eliminate your pain with gentle surgical intervention.