The spine has three types of curves: - Kyphotic curves refer to the outward curve of the thoracic spine (at the level of the ribs) .
- Lordotic curves refer to the inward curve of the lumbar spine (just above the buttocks).
- Scoliotic curving is a sideways curvature of the spine and is always abnormal.
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.
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