Your back, an area of various tensions and pains, sometimes ruins your life. We hear about kyphosis and lordosis, assuming that they are deformities of the spine. Here is a guide to get to know them better and understand the difference between these two terms in relation to your back.
Contents
Definition of kyphosis
A curvature of the spine
The spine presents natural curvatures when viewed in profile. This helps maintain body balance, as well as upright posture and ambulation. At the dorsal level, the column has an inverted C shape allowing in particular to leave room for the heart and the lungs. It is this spinal curvature that is anatomically defined as kyphosis.
We therefore understand that the dorsal kyphosis is not a pathological condition as such. However, it is often seen such as an abnormal or exaggerated curvature of the spine. One thinks in particular of the characteristic deformation of Quasimodo, the hunchback of Notre-Dame.
In sum, the dorsal column presents an angle between 20 and 45 degrees in the majority of individuals. This is considered “normal”. If the curvature has an angle outside this range (more than 50 degrees), then it is called hyperkyphosis.
As mentioned, it is normal to have a slightly rounded back. In case of pathology or hyperkyphosis, it is possible to develop pain. These can be located at the dorsal level (middle back ou between the shoulder blades), in the neck or even in the lower back. There is also aesthetic discomfort, with a tendency to lean forward (curved back).
It is important to mention that even when the dorsal kyphosis is exaggerated, it is possible that it does not cause any problem. This comes from the fact that the body has been able to adapt over time, and that the deformation of the spine does not lead to nervous or respiratory consequences. This is called asymptomatic hyperkyphosis.
Definition of lordosis
Cervical and lumbar curvature
Like kyphosis, lordosis is a normal curvature of the spine. We speak of posterior concavity in medicine. Here, it should be specified that the curvature is located in the cervical and lumbar areas. Each person therefore has a cervical lordosis and a lumbar lordosis.
You should know that the reasons for the accentuation of lordosis are varied. In the dock, we distinguish:
We will speak of pathology in the case where the curvature is accentuated in an exaggerated way. In such conditions, lordosis is called hyperlordosis. This deformation promotes more or less serious consequences in patients.
Hyperlordosis can lead to lower back pain or lower back pain. However, in many cases, lordosis or hyperlordosis is not painful (asymptomatic hyperlordosis).
The difference between kyphosis and lordosis
The position
It is true that kyphosis and lordosis are curvatures in the spine, but they are in different regions. Dorsal kyphosis lies between cervical lordosis and lumbar lordosis. The first at your upper back and the second at your lower back.
Because of this, the dorsal kyphosis is in the middle of the back. Thoracic kyphosis takes into account 12 vertebrae. Cervical lordosis and lumbar lordosis include 5 and 7 vertebrae respectively.
The type of curvature
When you look at the spine from the front, it looks straight. However, observed in profile, one notices a succession of curves from the neck to the buttocks.
Cervical lordosis and lumbar lordosis form inward bends at either end of the dorsal kyphosis. The latter is characterized by a longer outward curvature.
The pathology
Hyperkyphosis can end up creating a hump in the back. Hyperlordosis accentuates the curvature of the hollow of the kidneys. In the long term, it is possible that these deformities cause spinal disorders. In particular, the following conditions are considered:
Fortunately, these spinal deformities can be taken care of.
What is the support?
Spinal deformities will be confirmed during a consultation with the doctor. A clinical examination and an X-ray are necessary for the establishment of the diagnosis. Early detection will allow rapid management of kyphosis or lordosis if it is considered to be problematic. This will avoid possible complications.
physiotherapy sessions
The management of kyphosis or lordosis can be done by a physiotherapist. It applies to correcting spinal deformities using techniques such as:
In addition to physical therapy, treatment for hyperkyphosis or hyperlordosis may include painkillers to relieve pain. In some cases, surgery can be used, mainly when the spinal cord is compromised.
The boost of alternative medicine
You can also use alternative medicine. Posturology, acupuncture, osteopathy… Each of these gentle methods can help. It's up to you to choose the therapist to whom you want to entrust your back. Also consider doing a sport. You can participate in gentle gymnastics or yoga. You will work the different muscles of your back.
It is necessary to take care of your back on a daily basis. This can be done by practicing appropriate exercises. Also, avoid inappropriate postures, whether standing or sitting. Play sports to maintain your lumbar or abdominal muscles.
In children, don't forget to have the curves checked before they become permanent. Indeed, scoliosis can cause spinal deformities such as hyperkyphosis or hyperlordosis.
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Anas Boukas( Physiotherapist, physiotherapist, consultant )
Patients with back pain, I only see that on a daily basis. The problem is that most people consult only when their pain becomes intolerable. My name is Anas and I am physiotherapist (physio). My mission ? Helping people who are in pain before their pain becomes chronic and requires surgery. It is for this reason that I created Lombafit, a site focused on the popularization of back pain by health professionals.
