There are so many potential causes of back pain including natural degeneration, injury, and illness. But what happens when a deformity in the spine impacts comfort or daily tasks? While many of these conditions are seen early in life, as adults they can cause suffering and inability to function without pain. Three of the most common spinal deformities that can cause pain in adults include scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis.
1. Scoliosis
Most often associated with teenagers, scoliosis can affect adults as well. This condition shows as an S or C shaped curve in the spine from side to side. While most of the time scoliosis does not cause pain in any way, occasionally adults with this condition can experience some forms of back pain. If you were diagnosed with scoliosis as a child, you do have a higher risk of back issues as an adult. Untreated scoliosis can also lead to arthritis of the spine.
2. Kyphosis
Another spinal deformity that can occur as a result of scoliosis or on its own is kyphosis. This is a twisting and bending of the upper spine that causes poor posture or a hunched back. This deformity can generate back pain, such as stiffness and muscle fatigue, which is similar to that of artificially bad posture. Typically these symptoms do not worsen, but if they do, there are treatments available for adults.
3. Lordosis
This condition, which is less commonly discussed than scoliosis or kyphosis, is an abnormal inward curve of the spine in the lumbar region. This results in a swayback-like deformity. It is seen in children and, if flexible enough, does not require any sort of intervention. As an adult, the condition may be caused by obesity, degenerative diseases, or injuries. Depending on the severity, the treatment may be as simple as physical therapy, though more severe cases may require surgery.
While these deformities are most often seen in children, their effect on the adult anatomy can be very different. If you are experiencing pain as a result of a curved or hunched back, it may be time to talk to your physician for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
How have spinal deformities impacted your life?