Summary Curvatures of the Vertebral Column and thoracic cage

Curvatures of the Vertebral Column and
thoracic cage
• The vertebral column in adults has four curvatures: cervical, thoracic, lumbar,
and sacral



• The thoracic and sacral curvatures are primary curvatures. These during are
present the fetal period in relationship to the (flexed) fetal position



• Secondary curvatures: the cervical and lumber are acquired, they begin to
develop as a compensatory mechanism for changes in posture, to facilitate
holding the head up and walking upright.




Abnormal Curvatures of the Vertebral Column
Kyphosis: is an exaggerated thoracic curvature, producing a “hunchback” look



Lordosis: is an abnormal curvature of the vertebral column in the lumbar region
commonly seen in females during pregnancy or in men with "pot bellies"



Scoliosis is the most common spinal curvature deformity during late childhood in
females. It is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine