Generally, “straightening of the normal cervical lordosis” is due to degenerative disc changes and not “posture”. The discs are trapezoidal in shape when “normal” and contribute to the lordosis (backwards curve). When the discs become degenerative, the curve can shift to a “straight” one or even reverse with enough degeneration. There however are some exceptions in individuals who have very pliable discs. You can understand this looking at the flexion/extension X-rays.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
