Why is our spine curved

Computed Tomography CT scan is a noninvasive test that uses an x-ray beam and a computer to make 2-dimensional images of your spine. It may or may not be performed with a dye contrast agent injected into your bloodstream. It is useful for viewing changes in bony structures. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI scan is a noninvasive test that uses a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to give a detailed view of the soft tissues of your spine.

Unlike an x-ray, nerves and discs are clearly visible. MRI is useful in evaluating soft-tissue damage to the ligaments and discs, and assessing spinal cord injury. Myelogram is a specialized X-ray where contrast dye is injected into the spinal canal. A fluoroscope then records the images formed by the dye. Myelograms can show a nerve being pinched by a disc, bony overgrowth or stenosis.

The dye gives a picture of the spinal canal, spinal cord, and nerves in detail. A CT scan follows the test. Treatment for mild to moderate spine deformity in adults is determined by the severity of the symptoms, not the size of the curve.

It begins with a trial period of pain management, physical therapy, and nonsurgical options. If pain is caused by inflammation of the facet joints, treatment involves facet joint therapy. If the curvature is mild, the deformity is not treated. If the curvature is severe, complex spinal surgery may be recommended.

Barring serious "red flags," such as a neurologic impairment, conservative care is used for 3 to 6 months before surgery is considered. Self care: Using correct posture and keeping your spine in alignment are the most important things you can do for your back. The lower back lumbar curve bears most of your weight, so proper alignment of this section can prevent injury to your vertebrae and discs. You may need to make adjustments to your daily standing, sitting, and sleeping habits. You may also need to learn proper ways to lift and bend.

Bone density: Because good bone density reduces the risk of fractures in aging adults, you may be asked to undergo a bone-density scan to determine the strength of your bones. If osteoporosis is detected, your risk of a fracture to your spine is increased because your bones have weakened and become more brittle. Your doctor may prescribe a medication that slows bone loss.

Physical therapy : Exercise and strengthening exercises are key elements to your treatment and should become part of your life-long fitness. Physical therapists can instruct you on proper lifting and walking techniques, and they will work with you to strengthen your back, leg, and stomach muscles. They will also encourage you to stretch and increase the flexibility of your spine and legs.

Check with your doctor before you begin any new exercise program and be sure to see a physical therapist who specializes in spine rehabilitation. Medication: Over-the-counter and prescription medications can help you cope with back pain.

Bracing: Wearing a brace is often used for childhood scoliosis, but it will not straighten the adult spine. A brace may help reduce pain in the short-term, but it also will allow the muscles to get weaker, eventually leading to more back pain. Chiropractic care: Chiropractors apply pressure to an area to align bones and return joints to a more normal motion. Patients with spinal deformity might benefit from tissue massage for a muscle spasm, traction for a pinched nerve, or ultrasound for tight muscles.

Dry needling or acupuncture might also prove helpful. But most patients with spinal deformity are not candidates for a high-velocity spinal adjustment a back crack. Such adjustments by x-ray criteria do not result in a measureable change of spinal alignment. Anyone with a major spinal deformity who is considering chiropractic treatment should consult with a neurosurgeon first to determine whether it is safe.

Surgery: Surgical options vary depending on the severity of the symptoms, the number of levels affected, and the type of deformity. Any deviation to the left or the right by more than 10 degrees meets the definition for scoliosis. SpineUniverse accurately states that about 3 million cases are diagnosed each and every year in the United States. However, very few of these cases require surgical intervention.

Other sorts of curves in the spine may arise from a variety of diverse causes. Lordosis can be caused by osteoporosis, bone cancer, obesity, and spondylolisthesis a condition that occurs when a vertebra becomes displaced. Meanwhile, Kyphosis can develop from perpetually poor posture, arthritis, muscle weakness, infection, and birth defects. Although we have only mentioned two specific conditions, understand that any circumstance which causes vertebrae to somehow shift or change their angle may result in a curved spine.

These include trauma or genetic abnormalities, inflammation, or bone degeneration. In fact, a single diagnosed spinal condition can develop and progress due to a wide range of different underlying reasons. This principle also holds true when dealing with scoliosis. Yes, in approximately three out of every four cases, doctors cannot pinpoint a specific cause. However, the remaining cases originate from very distinct sources, and statistics surrounding idiopathic scoliosis suggest potential origins for the condition.

For instance, congenital scoliosis occurs when abnormalities appear during gestation. Neuromuscular scoliosis owes to other conditions such as spina bifida, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, polio, or spinal cord injury.

Adult scoliosis is usually prompted by concomitant degenerative condition and is distressingly common in the aging population.

April 23, Back Kyphosis Lordosis Scoliosis. You most likely have one of the common spine curvature disorders, these disorders pertain to abnormal curvatures of the spine. The spine, or backbone, is made up of stacked vertebrae and discs. A normal spine has a slight and gentle curve to it. Viewed from behind, the spine should look like it runs straight down the middle of your back. If you have a spine curvature disorder the normal curves of the spine are much greater than they are supposed to be.

The most common spine disorders are scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis. Continue reading to learn more information on each of the three disorders in order to figure out which you may have, and potential treatment options.

Kyphosis can be caused by a variety of different health problems including:. Often the cause of lordosis is unknown usually appearing in children. Other potential reasons include:. Kyphosis back braces are great ways to ease the pain. Our customer support team is available Monday - Friday from a.

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