Before describing the curvature of the spine, it is useful to explain simply what the spine is: The spine is all of the vertebrae that articulate with each other, forming a bony axis extending from the skull to the coccyx. It is a structure made up of small bones, namely vertebrae, and the discs between them. 

A healthy spine has a slight inclination when viewed from the side. This tilt allows the spine to relieve pressure from body movements and gravity. When viewed from behind, it should descend straight down along the back. When there are abnormalities in the spine, the curve of the spine is also distorted or curved towards certain areas.

What Are the Types of Curvature of the Spine?

Lordosis: The lumbar part of the person’s spine is severely turned inward.

Kyphosis: Appears as an abnormally curved ridge (inclined more than 50 degrees).

Scoliosis: There is a sideways slope in the spine of the person. This is usually S or C shaped.

How Do I Know If I Have a Curvature of the Spine?

Doctor; He or she can diagnose by taking a medical and family history, then a physical examination, looking at the spine, and using tools such as x-rays. X-rays show if the spinal bones are abnormal and the curvature is measured.