Posture Conditions
Posture is the position that you hold your body in while seated, standing or lying down. Training the body to stand, walk, lie and sit straight helps eliminate the strain placed on the ligaments and muscles surrounding your back. Many conditions of the skeletal system affect good posture. Kyphosis, scoliosis and lordosis are among the conditions that can cause a postural deformity. Consult your doctor if you believe you may have a postural deformity.
Hunchback
Kyphosis usually known as “Hunchback” manifests itself as forward rounding in the upper portion of the back, often it’s a severe rounding of more than 50 degrees according to the National Scoliosis Foundation. Kyphosis can occur during development or it can be caused through osteoporosis, arthritis, a fracture or from a trauma to the spine. In its mildest form, Kyphosis generally doesn’t cause any major health concerns. Severe kyphosis can cause damage to the nerves, tissue, lungs and organs and can be extremely painful. Kyphosis can strike at any age which will then also alter the treatment. The options available are; anti-inflammatory medications, exercise, bracing or surgery.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis occurs when there is a curvature in a person’s spine that curves from side to side. The National Scoliosis Foundation reports that seven million Americans are affected. Scoliosis can affect infants, children and adults, although it usually occurs between the ages of 10 and 15. Females are eight times more likely to be affected by scoliosis than males. It can cause considerable pain, reduce normal respiratory functions, prevent normal activities and affect the sufferers’ self confidence. The main treatment for scoliosis is bracing. If this is unsuccessful, a spinal fusion can help to correct the curvature of the spine.
Lordosis
Lumbar lordosis is a much exaggerated curvature of the lower back. It often appears as though the back is swaying, or the lower body appears to be standing outwards. Lordosis is usually the result of conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy or spinal muscular atrophy. It can also develop gradually over time if hip muscles are weak or tight. The treatments available are surgery or physical therapy.
Other Causes
There are many other conditions that can cause a postural deformity. Spinal infections can weaken the surrounding bone and tissue which then results in a curve. Before antibiotics, conditions such as TB (tuberculosis) and Polio were known to create a curved spine. Spinal fractures and tumors can also lead to postural conditions. Children who are still growing and undergo radiation therapy can experience stunted growth of bones and a spinal curvature as a side effect of treatment.