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Lordosis

(Swayback; Saddle Back)

Pronounced: Lor-doe-sis

by Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN

En Español (Spanish Version)

Definition

Lordosis is a curving of the lower back. A certain degree of normal lordosis occurs in the lumbar and cervical spine. This topic refers to abnormal lordosis of the lumbar spine. People with lordosis look like they are arching their lower back and sticking their buttocks out. It can occur in people of all ages.

Excess Lordosis

The shadowed spine to the left shows ideal lordosis.

The sooner lordosis is treated, the better the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor.

Causes

The exact cause of lordosis is often unknown.

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing lordosis:

Achondroplasia —a genetic disorder that results in abnormal cartilage growth and dwarfism
Spondylolisthesis —displaced vertebrae of back
Neuromuscular disorders such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy
Back surgery
Hip disorders
Kyphosis
Osteoporosis
Disc problems
Obesity

Symptoms

Often times there are no symptoms with lordosis. Depending on the degree of abnormal curving, you may experience back pain.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. During the physical, your doctor may ask you to bend your back and move your back. You may also be asked to see a specialist in spine disorders.

Your doctor may need images of your spine. This can be done with an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan.

Treatment

For mild cases of lordosis, treatment is often not necessary. Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Options include the following:

Your doctor may refer you to a therapist to learn specific exercises. Exercises may be used to strengthen muscles and increase range of motion. You may also be taught how to maintain a correct posture.

Medicines such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be given for discomfort or to decrease swelling.

Braces are sometimes used with children. The brace can make sure the curve doesn’t worsen as they grow.

Surgery is reserved for severe cases. The spine is straightened by using a metal rod, hooks, or screws in the back bones. Surgeons also use a bone graft to promote new growth and stability.

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent the development of lordosis.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

http://www.aaos.org/

North American Spine Society

http://www.spine.org

Canadian Orthopaedic Association

http://www.coa-aco.org/

Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation

http://www.canorth.org/

Lordosis. Children’s Hospital Boston website. Available at: http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site1095/mainpageS1095P0.html. Accessed January 2, 2013.

Lordosis. Seattle Children’s Hospital website. Available at: http://orthopedics.seattlechildrens.org/conditions_treated/lordosis.asp. Accessed January 2, 2013.

Swayback (Lordosis). Cedars Sinai Health System website. Available at: http://www.cedars-sinai.edu/5725.html. Accessed January 2, 2013.

Last reviewed March 2013 by Brian Randall, MD

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.