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The rectification of cervical lordosis occurs when the smooth curvature (lordosis) that normally exists between the neck and the back is not present, which can cause symptoms such as pain in the spine, stiffness and muscular contractures.
The treatment for this type of alteration must be done with corrective exercises, performed in physiotherapy. Several treatment methods can be used, according to the needs of each person, such as the Pilates method or RPG - global postural reeducation, for example. The use of hot compresses and electrostimulation devices may also be recommended in case of pain.
Main symptoms
Not all people who have a cervical rectification have symptoms. In the mildest cases, just look at the person from the side to notice the absence of the lordotic curve that should be present in the neck region.
But when they do, the signs and symptoms of cervical rectification usually include:
- Pain in the cervical spine;
- Pain in the middle of the back;
- Spine stiffness;
- Decreased range of motion of the trunk;
- Muscle contractures in the trapezius;
- Disc protrusion that can progress to herniated disc.
The diagnosis can be made by the doctor or physiotherapist when looking at the individual from the side, in a physical evaluation. It is not always necessary to perform imaging tests such as X-rays and MRIs, but these can be useful when there are symptoms, such as tingling in the head, arms, hands or fingers, or even a burning sensation, which may indicate a compression of the nerve that may be happening due to a herniated cervical disc.
When rectification is severe
The rectification of the cervical spine alone is not a serious alteration, but it can cause pain, discomfort in the neck region, and can increase the risk of developing spinal arthrosis, so it can be treated conservatively, with physiotherapy sessions. , without the need for surgery.
How the treatment is done
To treat rectification of the cervical spine, mobility exercises and muscle strengthening are recommended, such as the Pilates method, with the help of a physiotherapist. In addition, when symptoms are present, it may be indicated to do some physiotherapy sessions to control pain and discomfort, where resources such as warm bags, ultrasound and TENS can be used. The use of cervical spine manipulation techniques is also indicated, such as manual cervical traction and stretching of the neck and shoulder girdle muscles. However, the physiotherapist may indicate another type of treatment that he deems most appropriate, according to the patient's personal assessment.
Exercises for rectification of the cervical spine
Numerous exercises can be indicated, according to the need of each one, since rectification is usually not the only alteration of the spine, and the rectification of the lumbar and the hypomobility of the entire column may also be present. The aim of the exercises should be to strengthen the cervical extensor muscles, which are in the posterior neck, and to stretch the cervical flexors, which are in the anterior neck. Some examples of Pilates exercises are:
Exercise 1: Example of 'YES'
- Lie on your back with your legs bent and the soles of your feet flat on the floor
- A small space should be kept between the lumbar spine and the floor, as if a grape were there
- The individual must realize that the middle of the head touches the ground, as well as the shoulder blades and coccyx
- The exercise consists of dragging the head on the floor, making the movement of the 'YES' in a small amplitude, without removing the head from the floor
Exercise 2: Example of 'NO'
- In the same position as the previous exercise
- You should drag your head on the floor, making the movement of 'NO', in a small amplitude, without removing your head from the floor
Exercise 3: Creepy Cat X Hatching Cat
- In the position of 4 supports, or cats, with hands and knees resting on the floor
- Try to put your chin on your chest and force your middle back up
- Then you should look ahead while you butt up and move the middle of the back down, in a dynamic movement
Exercise 4: roll down x roll up
- Standing with legs slightly apart and arms relaxed at your sides
- Bring the chin up to the chest and roll the spine, flexing the trunk forward, vertebra by vertebra
- Leave your arms loose until your hands touch the floor, never moving your chin away from your chest
- To rise, the spine must be unwound slowly, vertebra by vertebra until it is completely erect
Exercise 5: Stretches
In the sitting position, keep your arms at your sides and lean your neck to each side: right, left and back, keeping the stretch for about 30 seconds, each time.
The physiotherapist will be able to indicate other exercises, according to the need. Each exercise can be repeated 10 times, and when the movements are getting 'easy' you can increase the exercise with towels, elastic bands, balls or other equipment. If you experience pain while doing any of these exercises, you should stop and do not exercise at home.