Contrary to what you might think, our spine is not straight. It naturally presents curvatures which allow optimal stability, dynamics and distribution of forces.
The straightness of cervical spine is a pathological condition characterized by loss of natural curvature of the cervical part of the spine, thus becoming straight or straight.
This abnormally straight conformation of the cervical spine promotes pain, tension and muscle contractures. This can hamper mobility and affect quality of life.
In this article, we explain everything you need to know about cervical spine straightness, focusing on the most important elements (Is it serious? When to worry? Can it be treated naturally?).
Straightness of the cervical spine: 5 key points to remember
- La straightness cervical spine refers to the loss of natural curvature from cervical spine.
- There is no specific cause that would explain the straightness of the cervical spine, although it can occur following an accident, unsuitable postures, or muscle spasms.
- This condition commonly causes symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.
- Certain symptoms may indicate damage to the spinal cord, and therefore constitute a medical emergency.
- Treatment includes medications, physical therapies, and certain modalities aimed at relieving symptoms (such as neck pain aids or grandmother's remedies).
Straightness of the cervical spine on video
What is cervical spine straightness?
Before defining what is "straightness of the cervical spine", a brief anatomical reminder is in order.
La column vertebral, also called spine, consists of 33 vertebrae stacked on top of each other vertically:
- 7 cervical vertebrae, numbered from C1 to C7,
- 12 dorsal or thoracic vertebrae, from D1 to D12,
- 5 lumbar vertebrae, from L1 to L5,
- 5 sacral vertebrae fused together forming the sacrum,
- 3 to 5 (usually 4) fused vertebrae forming the terminal part of the spine: the coccyx.
In a normal situation, the spine presents a succession of three physiological curvatures giving it a general “S” appearance when viewed in profile:
- Cervical lordosis: anterior physiological curvature of the cervical spine (concave or sunken).
- A dorsal curvature: posterior physiological curvature of the dorsal spine. When it is exaggerated, it is called "dorsal kyphosis" (convex or bump).
- A lumbar lordosis : anterior physiological curvature of the Lumbar spine (natural arch).
Your cervical spine is therefore naturally curve, in lordosis. When this lordosis disappears, making the cervical spine straight or straight, we speak of straightness.
La straightness cervical spine is therefore simply the loss of natural curvature of the upper part of the spine (cervical).
There is even a condition where the cervical curvature is completely reversed, called cervical kyphosis.
Where does the straightness of the cervical spine come from, and what are the daily repercussions? : (Cause and symptoms)
There is no specific cause that would explain the straightness of the cervical spine. Scientific studies attempt to demonstrate the role of spasms muscle in the genesis of this pathology.
Indeed, significant contractures of the cervical muscles could modify the alignment of the spine, and therefore cause straightness at this level.
Furthermore, there are other factors that can promote straightness of the cervical spine.
We can cite as an indication car accidents (whiplash), They unsuitable postures (at work, during sleep, etc.) and certain bone pathologies such as osteoporosis et osteoarthritis cervical.
In the case of bone pathologies, it is the deformation of the vertebrae which causes loss of physiological lordosis, and therefore causes a fixed postural change in the cervical spine.
Symptoms often observed following cervical straightness
You might assume that a straight cervical spine automatically leads to neck pain. This is not entirely true.
As the body has an impressive capacity to adapt, it happens in some cases that cervical straightness is asymptomatic (i.e. it does not cause any pain). This is explained by the absence of inflammation or nerve irritation despite the straight position of the cervical vertebrae.
On the other hand, it often happens that this condition causes symptoms. The different symptoms of straightness of the cervical spine are as follows:
- Neck pain.
- Contractures and muscle tension in the neck area.
- Limitation of mobility of the cervical spine, with difficulty in performing certain movements.
- Headache (cervicogenic headache), migraines, and sometimes dizziness.
When to worry
Although rare, certain worrying symptoms can appear following a straightness of the cervical spine. If you observe any of the following signs, it is imperative to consult urgently:
- constant pain, unaffected by rest
- constant radiation of pain in the upper limbs
- tingling and numbness
- coordination disorders
- weakness in the limbs
- incontinence
These signs and symptoms indicate potential damage to the spinal cord or cervical nerve root, and require appropriate management.
How to treat a straightness of the cervical spine? (once the diagnosis is issued)
The diagnosis of cervical spine straightness is relatively easy to make. Indeed, a cervical spine x-ray (especially in profile) is enough to confirm the diagnosis.
Once the diagnosis has been made, the treatment will be adapted according to your specific condition, and will take into consideration the following elements:
- pain level
- quality of sleep
- daily limitations
- history and medical history
- personal preferences
It should be noted that it is impossible to treat the cause of the pain if the deformity is fixed (for example due to cervical spondylosis). On the other hand, if the cause comes from contracted muscles, treatments can sometimes overcome this condition.
In the next sections, we will detail the various types of treatments possible to relieve symptoms.
What the doctor will prescribe following a straightness of the cervical spine (Medical treatment)
To relieve pain secondary to cervical spine straightness, the doctor may prescribe medications aimed at reducing pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
In this context, simple painkillers anti-inflammatory ou paracetamol are usually sufficient. Muscle relaxers are also prescribed to relieve symptoms.
These medications can be prescribed in the form of pills or topically. by the application of ointments containing active ingredients having a pain-relieving effect.
This allows you to combine the relaxing effect of massage and the analgesic effect of the drug to achieve effective pain reduction.
Different therapists to the rescue?
The treatments provided by a physiotherapist, osteopath or other (such as a chiropractor or massage therapist) are often effective in relieving pain caused by straightness of the cervical spine.
They essentially relax the neck muscles, restore cervical mobility, strengthen the neck muscles, and regain optimal function.
As mentioned previously, It should be noted that these modalities will not treat the cause of the problem if it comes from a bone pathology (such as cervical spondylosis or osteoporosis).
Self-treat at home
Obviously, it is preferable to consult a health professional to benefit from an individualized approach adapted to your situation.
On the other hand, you may be looking for natural solutions to relieve your symptoms at home.
Self-massage at home
One of the self-treatment solutions conveyed is the practice ofself-massages.
Simply find a massage oil (or prepare one based on essential and vegetable oils), apply it to your hand and gently massage the muscles of your neck with back-and-forth movements. comes vertical along the neck (without forgetting the trapezius muscles).
Products and accessories
In addition, certain tools and accessories will help reduce your pain in the comfort of your home. Recommended products are:
acupressure mat
- 【Multifunctional Physiotherapy】The acupressure kit set includes an acupressure mat and pillow, and 2 massage balls. You can use the acupressure set in different ways and on different parts of the body, such as lower back pain, insomnia, chronic stress, fatigue, tension, circulatory disorders, etc.
- 【Safe and Premium Material】The massage acupressure mat, cushion cover and storage bag are made of 100% cotton, the inside is 21D high-density eco-friendly sponge. The massage nail is made of non-toxic ABS plastic. 100% natural without side effects, hypoallergenic.
- 【Natural Ancient Indian Healing】 The acupressure mat has 230 massage nails, 6210 massage points, the pillow has 73 massage nails, 1971 massage points. Your weight is evenly distributed into thousands of small pieces to stimulate countless acupuncture points. Ideal for relaxation and promoting circulation. The size of the acupressure mat is 68*42cm, the size of the massage pillow is 37 x 15 x 10cm.
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Shiatsu neck massager
- Relieves Aches and Pains: RENPHO neck massager gives you the benefits of a professional shiatsu massage at home, saving you time and money; Its ergonomic U-shaped design and 8 deep kneading nodes simulate human fingers to create a super comfortable deep shiatsu massage; This shiatsu massager relieves pain from all over the body; use on neck, shoulders, back, legs, thighs, calves and feet
- Heating: This shoulder massager includes heat functions, which more effectively relieve muscle pain and tension, aches, pains and release trigger points while improving overall circulation; The vibration and heat functions can be turned on or off independently
- MULTIPLE INTENSITIES & DIRECTIONS: This neck massager will let you not worry about a sudden change of direction when you find the perfect spot; It will keep a kneading shiatsu massage in one direction until you want to change it; Combine that with 3 speed levels and your pulling force to surely find the right intensity to relieve muscle pain
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Manual neck massager
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: The graceful curves of this manual neck massager roller are the perfect combination of form and function. Different from other massage therapy tools, the neck massager looks more cute and humanized,
- RELIEVES MUSCLE STIFFNESS AND Aches: The 6 wheel neck massager is the perfect muscle massager tool for relieving spasms (knots) or trigger point muscles. By applying pressure to the affected muscle patch, blood circulation is stimulated bringing in more oxygen and nutrients for faster muscle relief and recovery.
- Less Effort: This portable massager has a longer handle and uses the principle of leverage, which is more comfortable and less labor intensive. Compared to direct massage with the hands, less than 1/4 of the force is needed. Enjoy relaxation without feeling tired at the same time. When you squeeze the handle, the strength of the force is controllable.
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massage gun
- 30 LEVELS Massage Gun：ALDOM massage gun Choose the speed and massage heads that best suits your needs can quickly remove lactic acid produced after exercise, and for daily relieve muscle, back and neck pain aches and stiffness, dramatically reducing muscle recovery time.
- Long Battery Life: Equipped with high quality battery, the muscle massager can keep working about 6-8 hours after charging, while the cooling system can effectively remove excess heat, if the battery is low, there will be a red prompt.
- Less than 45 dB Ultra Low Noise: ALDOM muscle massager gun which features high performance and low noise. features advanced technology and high-torque non-brushed electric motor, Featuring the high-precision mold which tightly connects the machine head and the body, The high-torque motor rotates 1800-4800 times per minute and achieves your tissue to loosen the fascia (connective tissue)
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Cervical massage cushion
- Deep Shiatsu Massage – TAKRINK shiatsu massage cushion contains 8 deep kneading massage nodes that simulate the massage style of a professional masseuse, providing a deep tissue massage. Let the massage cushion help relieve sore and tense muscles in your neck, shoulders and back, giving you an unforgettable full body massage
- Back Massage with Remote Control – Unlike other shiatsu massage cushions with built-in control buttons, this shiatsu massage cushion with remote control does not require you to turn around and click the buttons. You can adjust the program with the remote control while massaging, which ensures a more comfortable massage experience
- Heating Function – The TAKRINK massage cushion can be heated up to 45°, thus promoting blood circulation and doubling the comfort of the massage experience. When you don't want to heat it, you can turn off the effect by clicking the heating button. With the addition of heating function, shiatsu neck massager doubles the massage effect and is a great choice for relaxing your muscles
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Cervical relaxation hammock
- EXCELLENT FINISH: This head hammock is equipped with an adjustable strap, a cotton cushion, two solid integrated springs and a foldable and robust support with non-slip feet, everything which ensures you a moment of relaxation very pleasant
- CERVICAL RELIEF: This cervical hammock helps keep your head in a natural position to relax your muscles. Just 15 minutes a day you will be able to see the difference. Also help you improve bad posture, stiffness and torticollis. Perfect for office workers, students, athletes, drivers, seniors, etc.
- PORTABLE AND PRACTICAL: This device differs from other hammock heads by its removable and removable support. Thanks to its innovative design and a free bag, you can take it anywhere and find a pleasant place to relax. No need to attach it to the door handle, and the holder holds no place after folding
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Massage roller
- 【6 in 1 Massage Kit】The muscle roller set includes 1*foam roller, 1*massage roller stick, 1*massage ball, 1*resistance band, 1*figure 8 exercise band, 1 * product manual and 1 storage bag. You will treat yourself to a full body massage – from neck to toes. 12 months warranty, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions, we will do our best to satisfy our customers.
- 【Effective Tension Relief】Use this foam roller set before workout to stretch muscles and prevent muscle injury. You can also activate muscles to enhance exercise effects during exercise. It is also suitable for stretching and balance exercises. Use for 20-30 minutes daily to relieve tight, stiff muscles and relieve tension.
- 【Excellent Elasticity and Durability】The muscle roller set is made of eco-friendly EVA material which has excellent durability, water resistance and elasticity, and is not easily deformed. The foam roller with protrusions is gentle on the body and gives an acupressure feeling. No smell, no harm to the body, no sweat. You can wash it directly with water.
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Compex
- TO IMPROVE YOUR STRENGTH, ENDURANCE, RESISTANCE, REGAIN MUSCLE VOLUME AND RECOVER BETTER: The Compex SP4.0 is the electrostimulator designed for athletes who wish to improve their physical preparation, recover better, relieve their pain and have a solution for their rehabilitation.
- 30 PROGRAMS: 10 physical preparation programs, 5 recovery/massage programs, 8 pain relief programs, 5 fitness programs and 2 rehabilitation programs.
- 4 INDEPENDENT CHANNELS: With 4 independent channels, you can simultaneously work both thighs or both arms or the entire abdominal strap (abdominals + lumbar) for example.
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Besides passive treatments, you should consult a medical professional such as a physical therapist (physiotherapist). He will prescribe stretching and muscle strengthening movements adapted to your condition to relieve your symptoms and improve your function.
Applying heat
The application of heat to the neck, through hot water bottles, is effective in reducing neck pain after a long day at work.
It is also possible to use collars cervical heated, or patches heated which have a very interesting relaxing and decontracting effect.
Adjust your sleeping position
The bad positions during sleep participate in modifying the conformation of the spine in the long term, more particularly the cervical spine. This can aggravate or promote the straightness of the cervical spine.
Moreover, once the straightness of the cervical spine is installed, it will result in unrest du sleep. So it's a vicious circle!
If you are ever woken up during the night by your pain, you must adjust your sleeping position or adapt your bedding. The same is true if you wake up with morning stiffness in the neck.
For this purpose, there are comfortable mattresses and pillows (like this memory foam orthopedic pillow), specially designed to prevent spinal deformities.
What's more, Here are some tips to prevent or avoid worsening cervical spine deformities through small adjustments to your sleeping position:
- Dorsal position: It is considered an ideal position to recover well, as it promotes complete muscle relaxation. The three curvatures of the spine are respected, provided that the cushion is correctly positioned against the neck. Be careful, the cushion must not be too thick! If you cannot afford an orthopedic pillow, you could roll a towel and place it at the back of your neck to support your cervical area.
- Lateral position: if you sleep on your side, opt for a thick pillow to fill the space between the shoulder and the neck (always with the aim of respecting cervical lordosis). A rolled towel can also provide suitable support.
- Ventral position: with this position, muscular tensions are accentuated in many individuals. Since you have to turn your head and the majority of people do not have enough rotational range of motion, it is best to avoid this position during times of pain.
Treat your pain with natural remedies?
Although they are not supported by solid scientific evidence, several natural products and home remedies are used to treat various body pains, especially for their anti-inflammatory power.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of plants and essential oils that are effective in controlling pain and inflammation:
- Turmeric : Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers very powerful, turmeric is one of the most used plants in a culinary and therapeutic context. The composition of turmeric is essentially made of essential oils, vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, K) and trace elements. But it is to its composition rich in curcumin and curcuminoids that we owe them and calm skin of this spice.
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- Ginger : In addition to the special flavor it brings to the kitchen and its aphrodisiac properties, ginger is a root well known for its anti-inflammatory powers. THE gingerol gives it its anti-inflammatory action. It is an active component acting on the inflammatory pain related to chronic joint inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rheumatic diseases, etc. It has been proven that this active element is also effective in acting on the inflammation linked to arthritis and sciatica. Ginger also has other benefits thanks to its high potassium content and its richness in trace elements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium) and vitamins (provitamin and vitamin B9).
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- Omega-3s : Omega-3 are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in the functioning of our body. They are provided by food in three natural forms: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Beyond their action on the brain and the cardiovascular system, omega-3s prove very effective against inflammation. Indeed, they have the ability to act on the inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis by slowing down cartilage destruction, thus they reduce the intensity of osteoarthritis pain. Sciatica, being most often linked to an inflammation secondary to a herniated disc, it can also respond to omega-3 provided it is consumed regularly.
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- Lemon eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is a plant most often used in the form of herbal tea or essential oil. She would have anti-inflammatory effects which give it the ability to act on the bone and joint pain in general and the pain of sciatica in particular.
- Eucalyptus Citriodora Essential Oil.
- 100% pure.
- Botanical name: eucalyptus citriodo.
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- wintergreen : Wintergreen is a shrub from which a very interesting essential oil is extracted. It is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy. This oil extracted from the shrub bearing the same name, is used in massage to relieve sciatica and act like a analgesic. Indeed, it provides a heating effect thanks to its ability toactivate blood circulation locally.
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References
Resources used in the creation of this article
[1] SY Yoon, HI Moon, SC Lee, NL Eun, and YW Kim, "Association between cervical lordotic curvature and cervical muscle cross-sectional area in patients with loss of cervical lordosis", Clin. Anath., flight. 31, no 5, p. 710-715, 2018.
[2] PS Helliwell, PF Evans, and V. Wright, “The straight cervical spine: does it indicate muscle spasm? », J. Bone Joint Surg. Br., flight. 76, no 1, p. 103-106, 1994.
[3] L. Lippa, and F. Cacciola, “Loss of cervical lordosis: What is the prognosis? », J. Craniovertebral Junction Spine, flight. 8, no 1, p. 9‑14, 2017, doi: 10.4103/0974-8237.199877.
Our article creation process at Groupe SANTEPOURTOUS
Each article is written by a qualified healthcare professional following strict editorial procedures (read more). This article is regularly revised in the light of the most recent scientific evidence.
My name is Anas Boukas and I am a physiotherapist. My mission ? Helping people who are suffering before their pain worsens and becomes chronic. I am also of the opinion that an educated patient greatly increases their chances of recovery. This is why I created Healthforall Group, a network of medical sites, in association with several health professionals.
My journey:
Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Montreal , Physiotherapist for CBI Health,
Physiotherapist for The International Physiotherapy Center
My name is Katia, I'm 27 years old and I'm a web writer specializing in writing medical articles. Being passionate about medicine and writing, I have set myself the goal of making medical information accessible to as many people as possible, thanks to the popularization of even more complex scientific notions.