Hyperlordosis(Saddle Back)Pronounced: Lor-doe-sis
by
Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN DefinitionLordosis is a normal inward curve in the lower back and neck. Hyperlordosis occurs when the angle of the inward curve is exaggerated. The sooner hyperlordosis is treated, the better the outcome.
CausesThe exact cause of hyperlordosis is often unknown. Risk FactorsFactors that may increase your chance of hyperlordosis include:
SymptomsOften, there aren't any symptoms with hyperlordosis. Depending on the degree of abnormal curving, you may experience back pain. DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. During the physical, your doctor may ask you to bend and move your back. Hyperlordosis can be seen during the exam. Some tests may be done to rule out or confirm other conditions that may be causing hyperlordosis. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests to see the spinal curve and the structures around it. These may include: TreatmentFor mild cases of hyperlordosis, treatment is often not necessary. Additional treatment may be needed to resolve any underlying conditions that contribute to the hyperkyphosis. A referral may be made to a specialist who treats spinal disorders. Options include the following: Physical TherapyA referral may be made to a therapist to learn specific exercises. Exercises may be used to strengthen muscles and increase range of motion. This may include learning how to maintain a correct posture. MedicationsMedications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be given for discomfort or to decrease swelling. Back BraceBraces are sometimes used with children. The brace may prevent the curve from worsening as a child grows. SurgerySurgery may be used when the curve is severe, progresses, or when other treatment methods fail. The goal of surgery is to correct the exaggeration of the curve. The spine is corrected with a metal rod, hooks, or screws in the back bones. Surgeons also use a bone graft to promote new growth and stability. PreventionThere are no current guidelines to prevent hyperlordosis. RESOURCES:North American Spine Society http://www.spine.org Ortho Info—American Academy
of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://www.orthoinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org References:
Acute low back pain. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T114958/Acute-low-back-pain
. Updated October 25, 2017. Accessed November 15, 2017.
Lordosis. Seattle Children’s Hospital website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed November 15, 2017. Lordosis in children. Boston Children’s Hospital website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed November 15, 2017. Spine basics. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated December 2013. Accessed November 15, 2017. Swayback (Lordosis). Cedars Sinai Health System website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed November 15, 2017. Vialle R, Khouri N, et al. Lumbar hyperlordosis of neuromuscular origin: pathophysiology and surgical strategy for correction.
Int Orthop. 2007;31(4):513-523. Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Teresa Briedwell, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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