Lordosis is the medical name given to the inward curvature of the lumbar spine, or more popularly known as the small of your back. The truth is there is nothing really wrong with lordosis. However, the excessive arching of the lumbar spine may cause pain as well as the protrusion of the abdominal area. Such is a common problem among bodybuilders and individuals who spend a lot of time sitting. Having excessive amounts of body fat is also a triggering factor as the spine is given a lot of weight to support.
There are also a handful of medical causes of lordosis. Some of them include osteoporosis (the bones become fragile and brittle), spondylolisthesis (the vertebra is displaced forward) and discitis (infection and inflammation of the disc space between vertebrae). Pregnancy may also cause lordosis.
As earlier mentioned, lordosis can cause back pain especially if the inward arching is so severe. The reason why there’s pain is this: the excessive arching compresses the vertebral or spinal discs — structures found in between every vertebra or bone forming the spine, designed to absorb shock and minimize friction. Back pain felt by someone with lordosis may be experienced whether he or she is standing or sitting.
Medical Remedies for Lordosis
Usually, treating lordosis is rarely needed especially if there are no symptoms involved. But if there’s pain and the condition is getting in the way of having a normal life, treatment is warranted. The following are some of the medical remedies for lordosis:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAIDs – NSAIDs are given to individuals with lordosis to help deal with the pain and inflammation, both of which are common symptoms of the condition affecting the lumbar spine.
- Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation – Especially if the condition is due to osteoporosis, it’s not unlikely for a doctor to recommend supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. As you may already know, calcium is necessary for strong bones. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is essential for calcium to be absorbed by the bones.
- Lumbosacral corsets – Also referred to as back braces, these pieces of medical equipment are usually recommended for people with severe lordosis. They are worn to help support the lower back and at the same time reduce its curvature.
- Surgery – This is done in extreme cases of lordosis.
Natural Remedies for Lordosis
Mild to moderate cases of lordosis may be treated with a few natural solutions. They are perfect for people whose condition causes only mild discomfort that can be easily relieved with the intake of OTC painkillers. The following are some effective all-natural remedies for lordosis:
- Eliminate excess fat in the belly area – Naturally, too much weight in the midsection can put a lot of strain on the spine, most specially the lumbar area where lordosis takes place. Reducing the consumption of saturated fats and calories and increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables can help zap belly fat. Proper eating habits should also be paired with regular dose of exercise.
- Shed off unwanted pounds – It’s also a good idea to reduce fat all over the body to save the spine and all of your weight-bearing joints from supporting a lot of weight. Again, the best way to attain a more ideal body weight is by opting for a healthy diet and having exercise on a regular basis.
- Avoid sitting for a long time – Standing up from time to time helps you manage lordosis. When in the workplace, grab every available opportunity to give your lumbar spine a break. When at home, carry out certain activities standing up, such as eating, reading the newspaper or talking on the phone.
- Maintain proper posture – Slouching can worsen your lordosis. That is why it’s a good idea to always make sure that your posture is correct especially when sitting down. You should also regularly stretch your upper back as well as perform exercises that strengthen it and the shoulders.
