Postural Deformities

Postural deformities are the exaggerated curvature of the spine. The spine is naturally curved but various factors may give rise to the following deformities:

Kyphosis

This is when there is an outward curvature of the spine (in the sagittal plane) causing the person to have a hunchback.

Lordosis

This is when there is an inward curvature of the spine (in the sagittal plane) causing the person's belly to protrude.

Scoliosis

This is when there is an s-shaped exaggeration of the spine (in the coronal plane).

Factors contributing to postural deformities:

• Congenital - the deformity was present at birth
• Environmental - physical stress on the spine as a result of every day activity
• Traumatic - injury or trauma from surgery