When we think about the spine, many people imagine it as a straight column of bones stacked on top of each other. In reality, a healthy spine is not straight. Instead, it has three natural curves that allow us to move efficiently, absorb load and maintain balance. These natural curves of the spine develop throughout childhood as we learn to lift our head, sit, stand and walk.
The three natural curves of the spine are:
- Cervical lordosis — the inward curve of the neck
- Thoracic kyphosis — the outward curve of the upper and mid-back
- Lumbar lordosis — the inward curve of the lower back
Why Do We Have Natural Curves of the Spine?
Together, these curves create a strong and adaptable structure that helps the spine handle the demands placed on it every day. They also improve the spine’s ability to absorb and transfer forces. For example, think about a spring. A straight spring has limited ability to compress and absorb energy. In contrast, a coiled spring can adapt, move and distribute load more effectively.
1. Absorb Shock and Distribute Load
Every step, jump, lift and movement creates forces travelling through the body. As a result, the spinal curves help spread these forces across the vertebrae, discs, muscles and surrounding tissues, rather than concentrating stress in one area.
2. Improve Movement Efficiency
Your spine needs to move: bend, rotate and extend. The curves allow different regions of the spine to contribute to movement while maintaining stability.
3. Maintain Balance and Posture
The curves allow the head to sit over the ribs and pelvis, creating a more efficient alignment for standing and moving. Your body is constantly making small adjustments to keep your centre of mass balanced — the spinal curves are a key part of this system.
What Happens If We Lose the Curves of the Spine?
Changes in spinal curves can occur for many reasons. However, a loss of the natural curves can change how forces are distributed through the body. For example:
- Reduced lumbar lordosis may influence how the pelvis and hips move. It can cause “tighter” hip flexors (psoas) and hamstrings, and abdominal bracing.
- Increased lumbar lordosis may lead to weaker/lengthened hip flexors and hamstrings, and a “tighter” low back.
- Increased thoracic kyphosis (curve of the upper back) may affect shoulder movement, breathing mechanics and the ability to extend through the spine.
How Can We Support the Natural Curves of the Spine?
Above all, remember that variations in spinal shape are normal. Maintaining healthy spinal movement is less about holding a rigid posture and more about developing strength, mobility and control. In other words, a strong spine should be able to change shape and adapt to the demands placed on it.
If you’d like help supporting the natural curves of the spine — whether you’re managing back pain or simply want to move better — our physiotherapists would love to help. Book an appointment to get started.