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Alternative names Return to top
SwaybackDefinition Return to top
Lordosis is an increased curvature of the normally curved lumbar spine.Considerations Return to top
The spine has three types of curves:A small degree of both kyphotic and lordotic curvature is normal. Exaggeration of the kyphotic curve is described as round shoulders or hunched shoulders (the medical term is Scheuermann's disease). Exaggeration of the lordotic curve is often called swayback (the medical term is lordosis).
This curvature tends to make the buttocks appear more prominent. A child with marked lordosis, when laid on his back on a hard surface, will have a space beneath his lower back and the surface.
If the lordotic curve is flexible (when the child bends forward the curve reverses itself) it is generally of little medical significance. If the curve is fixed, it suggests the need for medical evaluation and intervention.
Common Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
If the back is flexible, lordosis is usually not treated and will not progress or cause problems.Call your health care provider if Return to top
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |