From the Guidelines
Lordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the spine in the lower back, creating a swayback appearance, and managing its associated pain requires a multifaceted approach prioritizing morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. To manage lordosis pain, start with regular stretching exercises that target hip flexors and strengthen core muscles, particularly the abdominals and glutes, as recommended by guidelines for low back pain management 1. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (400-800mg every 6-8 hours) or naproxen (220-500mg twice daily) can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Apply heat therapy for 15-20 minutes several times daily to relax muscles, and consider physical therapy for personalized exercise programs. Some key points to consider in managing lordosis pain include:
- Maintaining proper posture when sitting and standing
- Using ergonomic chairs with lumbar support
- Avoiding high-heeled shoes which can worsen the condition
- Placing a pillow under the knees when lying on the back for sleep comfort
- Weight management, as excess weight increases strain on the spine If pain persists despite these measures, consulting a healthcare provider is essential, as more severe cases may require prescription muscle relaxants, steroid injections, or rarely, surgical intervention, with decisions based on clinical correlation between symptoms and radiographic findings, severity of symptoms, patient preferences, and surgical risks 1. Lordosis pain occurs because the exaggerated curve places additional stress on spinal facet joints and can compress spinal nerves, leading to inflammation and muscle strain. Integrative therapies such as acupuncture, healing touch, hypnosis, and music therapy may also be considered for pain management, as suggested by guidelines for pain management in various conditions 1.
From the Research
Definition of Lordosis
- Lordosis refers to the natural inward curve of the lower back, also known as the lumbar spine 2.
- It is a key postural component that has interested both clinicians and researchers for many years 2.
Causes and Effects of Lordosis
- Lumbar lordosis is unique to the human spine and is necessary to facilitate our upright posture 3.
- Decreased lumbar lordosis and increased thoracic kyphosis are hallmarks of an aging human spinal column 3.
- The loss of lumbar lordosis is considered a possible cause of low back pain [(4,5)].
- Studies have shown that patients with low back pain tend to have smaller lumbar lordotic angles than healthy controls 5.
Management of Pain
- Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) non-surgical approach has been shown to increase lumbar lordosis in patients with hypolordosis and low back disorders 4.
- CBP methods, including extension traction, mirror image, and spinal manipulative therapy, can help restore cervical lordosis and alleviate neck pain 6.
- Restoring lumbar lordosis through CBP methods can provide longer-term relief to patients with low back disorders compared to conventional rehabilitation approaches 4.
- Maintaining normal lordosis values, which can vary depending on individual characteristics such as age, gender, and body mass index, is important for preventing low back pain 2.