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Lordosis

Definition:

Lordosis is an increased curving of the spine.

Alternative Names:

Swayback

Considerations:

The spine has three types of curves:

A small degree of both kyphotic and lordotic curvature is normal. Too much kyphotic curving causes round shoulders or hunched shoulders (Scheuermann's disease).

Too much lordotic curving is called swayback (lordosis). Lordosis tends to make the buttocks appear more prominent. A child with significant lordosis will have a space beneath his lower back and the surface when laying on the back on a hard surface. 

If the lordotic curve is flexible (when the child bends forward the curve reverses itself) it is generally not a concern. If the curve does not move, medical evaluation and treatment is needed.

Common Causes:

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