By: Kimberly Bramblett and Lordosis By: Kimberly Bramblett and Jacob Brodie

What is it??? Lordosis, also known as swayback, is a condition in which the spine in the lower back has an excessive curvature. The spine naturally curves at the neck, upper back, and lower back to help absorb shock and support the weight of the head. Lordosis occurs when the natural arch in the lower back, or lumbar region, curves more than normal. This can lead to excess pressure on the spine, causing pain.

Causes Lordosis usually appears in childhood without any known cause. This is called benign juvenile lordosis. However, lordosis can affect people of any age. Other possible causes of Lordosis include: poor posture becoming overweight Osteoporosis (weakening of the bones with age) Discitis (a disorder of the disks between the spinal vertebrae) Kyphosis (an excessive outward curvature at the mid-back) Achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism)

Treatments Treatment for lordosis will depend on the severity of the curvature and the presence of other symptoms. Other forms of treatment include: medication to reduce pain and swelling physical therapy (to help build strength in the core muscles) yoga (to increase body awareness, strength, flexibility, and range of motion) weight loss braces (for children and teens) surgery (in severe cases)