Hyperlordosis
Lordosis is a term that refers to the normal inward curvature of the spine in the lumbar region (lower back. Hyperlordosis refers to an exaggerated inward curvature in the lower back (also known as swayback or anterior pelvic tilt. Oftentimes, the term lordosis and hyperlodosis are used interchangeably.
Hyperlordosis is estimated that up to 50% of the population may have some degree of lordosis. Hyperlordosis is more common in women than in men, in people who are overweight or obese and in those who excessively stand or lift heavy objects. It is also more common in people who have scoliosis or spondylolisthesis.
Causes
Some potential causes of hyperlordosis, include:
- Poor posture: Slouching or standing with poor posture
- Muscle imbalances: muscle imbalance --If the muscles in the front of the body are stronger than the muscles in the back and buttocks
- Obesity: Excess weight can put additional strain on the lower back
- Pregnancy: The weight of the baby and the changes in the body’s center of gravity during pregnancy
Symptoms
Not all people with hyperlordosis will experience symptoms and the severity of symptoms can vary. Potential symptoms of hyperlordosis include:
- Back pain: pain in the lower back, especially when standing or sitting for long periods of time.
- Difficulty moving or performing certain activities: Hyperlordosis can cause difficulty with movements that involve bending forward or backward, such as lifting or reaching.
- Visible curvature of the spine: In severe cases, hyperlordosis may be visible as an exaggerated curve in the lower back when standing or sitting.
- Fatigue: Hyperlordosis can cause fatigue, as the muscles in the back may have to work harder to support the spine.
Diagnosis
Hyperlordosis is typically diagnosed through history and physical examination and imaging tests. The physical examination will identify signs of exaggerated curvature in the lower back. Range of motions and flexibility may be evaluated.
Some physical exam findings that may be seen in lordosis include:
- Visible curvature of the spine: An excessive lordotic curve may be visible when the patient is standing or sitting.
- Pelvic tilt: Lordosis can cause the pelvis to tilt forward, which may be visible when the patient is standing.
- Difficulty with certain movements: Lordosis can cause difficulty with movements that involve bending forward or backward, such as lifting or reaching.
X-ray measurements are used to diagnose hyperlordosis by measuring the degree of curvature in the spine.
Treatment
Some common treatment options for lordosis may include:
- Lifestyle changes including losing weight or improving posture.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy or exercises for lumbar lordosis can help to improve posture, strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, and reduce pain. A physical therapist can teach exercises to improve muscle balance and alignment, as well as provide manual therapy to address any muscle imbalances or tightness.
- Medications: pain medications may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation
- Bracing: a back brace may be recommended to help support the spine and improve posture. A lumbar lordosis brace, for example, is typically worn around the waist and can be adjusted to provide the appropriate amount of support and correct curvature of the spine.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature of the spine. There are several different surgical options available, including spinal fusion and spinal deformity correction surgery.