SPINAL CURVATURE Meaning and
Definition
-
Spinal curvature refers to an abnormal deviation or deformity in the natural alignment of the spine. The spine has a normal curvature that helps maintain balance, flexibility, and support to the body. However, if this curvature becomes excessive or develops in an irregular manner, it can lead to a condition called spinal curvature.
There are different types of spinal curvature, the most common being scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis. Scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature of the spine, causing it to resemble an "S" or a "C" shape. Kyphosis is an excessive forward rounding of the upper back, resulting in a hunchback appearance. Lordosis is an inward curvature of the lower back, leading to an exaggerated arch.
Spinal curvature can occur due to various causes, including congenital (from birth), developmental, degenerative, neuromuscular, or traumatic factors. It can range from mild to severe, causing varying degrees of pain, discomfort, and functional limitations. In some cases, spinal curvature can lead to breathing difficulties, digestive issues, or nerve compression, affecting organ function and mobility.
Treatment for spinal curvature may depend on the specific condition and severity. It can range from conservative measures, such as exercise, bracing, or physical therapy, to more invasive options like surgery. The aim of treatment is to manage pain, correct or prevent progression of the curvature, and improve overall function and quality of life.
Overall, spinal curvature refers to an abnormal deviation or deformity in the natural alignment of the spine, which may require medical intervention for management and treatment.
-
See kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPINAL CURVATURE
- apinal curvature
- zpinal curvature
- xpinal curvature
- dpinal curvature
- epinal curvature
- wpinal curvature
- soinal curvature
- slinal curvature
- s-inal curvature
- s0inal curvature
- spunal curvature
- spjnal curvature
- spknal curvature
- sponal curvature
- sp9nal curvature
- sp8nal curvature
- spibal curvature
- spimal curvature
- spijal curvature
Etymology of SPINAL CURVATURE
The word "spinal" relates to the spine, which refers to the column of individual bones (vertebrae) that make up the central supporting structure of the body. It comes from the Latin word "spina", meaning "a thorn" or "spine".
The word "curvature" traces back to the Latin word "curvare", which means "to bend or curve". It is derived from the noun "curvatura", meaning "a bending or rounding", which is formed from the past participle stem of "curvare".
Therefore, "spinal curvature" refers to the condition where the natural alignment of the spine deviates from its normal straight shape, resulting in a curved or bent form.
Similar spelling words for SPINAL CURVATURE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
