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Cervical Curvature Explained: Causes, Importance, and Tips for a Healthy Neck

  • Writer: Dr. Cameron Bearder
    Dr. Cameron Bearder
  • Dec 20, 2024
  • 4 min read

Updated: Mar 13

Cervical Lordosis: What It Is and Why It Matters

Cervical lordosis is the natural curve in your neck. Your neck curve, or cervical curvature, helps keep your spine healthy and your body balanced. This curve supports your head, absorbs shock, and makes it easier for you to move. If the curve is too straight or too curved, it can cause problems like pain or stiffness. In this blog, we’ll talk about what cervical lordosis is, why it’s important, and how to keep your neck healthy.


Upright CT scan showing ideal and normal cervical neck curve. How to restore natural curve in neck.
A normal neck curve

What Is Cervical Lordosis?

Your neck is made up of seven bones called vertebrae (C1-C7) that create a gentle "C-shaped" curve when seen from the side. This curve helps spread out the stress on your spine when you move and keeps your neck strong and flexible. A healthy curve usually ranges between 20 and 40 degrees, but it can differ from person to person.


Common Problems with Cervical Lordosis

  1. Hypolordosis (Loss of Curve): This happens when your neck becomes too straight. It can be caused by poor posture, looking down at screens too much, or injuries like whiplash. Symptoms may include neck pain, headaches, and trouble moving your neck.

    Upright CT scan showing hypolordosis with straight neck curve, Doctor for neck pain. What doctor to see for neck pain.
    A straight neck, or "Military" neck curve

  2. Reversed Curve: Sometimes, the curve can bend the wrong way due to serious injuries, poor posture, or spine problems, which can cause a lot of discomfort.

    Upright CT scan illustrating a reverse spinal curve and loss of neck curvature. What is cone beam ct.
    A reversed neck curve

What Causes Problems with Cervical Lordosis?

Several things can change the shape of your neck curve, including:

  • Bad Posture: Slouching or bending your neck forward for a long time can strain your neck muscles.

  • Injuries: Accidents like car crashes can damage your neck.

  • Aging: Conditions like arthritis or worn-out discs can change the curve over time.


Why Is Cervical Curvature Important?

Having a healthy neck curve is important because:

  • It Protects Your Nerves and Spinal Cord: Your spinal cord runs through your neck, and a good curve overall keeps it safe and freely moveable.

  • It Prevents Pain: A proper curve can help limit muscle strain and limit irritation to sensitive spinal structures that can contribute to pain or headaches.

  • It Helps You Move Freely: A healthy neck makes it easier to look around and do everyday activities.


How to Keep Your Cervical Lordosis Healthy

  1. Maintain Good Posture: While both sleeping (we have pillow recommendations if needed) and when awake! During the day, be mindful to keep your head in line with your shoulders, and do not slouch or stare at your phone in your lap (share these important tips with your loved ones, especially children).

  2. Set Up Your Workspace: Make sure your computer screen is slightly above eye level and your chair supports your back, with limited backward leaning.

  3. Limit Screen Time: Take breaks from looking at your phone or computer to avoid neck strain. Also, please hold your phone UP!


When to See a Doctor

Talk to a doctor or specialist if you have constant neck pain, headaches, or trouble moving your neck. They may order an X-ray, CT, or MRI to evaluate your neck closely and suggest treatments like physical therapy, upper cervical chiropractic, or, in rare cases, recommended evaluation with a surgeon.


Conclusion

Cervical lordosis is key to keeping your spine healthy and your body comfortable. Understanding its importance and practicing good habits, you can avoid neck problems and stay pain-free. Even small changes to how you sit, stand, or move can make a big difference in keeping your neck healthy.


Thank you for your attention, and we genuinely hope this content was informative and of value.

The Keystone Team would be honored to connect if you suffer from neck issues and ask how to cure neck pain fast. If you, as a medical professional, would like to discuss consultation, collaboration, or cervical imaging, we invite you to explore a resource we have created specifically For Healthcare Practitioners.


References

  1. Harrison, D. E., et al. (2001). "Normal Sagittal Spinal Alignment: A Review." Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.

  2. McAviney, J., et al. (2005). "Relationship Between Cervical Lordosis and Neck Complaints." Chiropractic & Osteopathy.

  3. May, S. (2008). "Chronic Neck Pain: Effective Management with Physical Therapy." Manual Therapy.



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Disclaimer: This blog is intended for general information purposes only. It does not provide medical, chiropractic, nursing, or other healthcare services, nor does it offer medical advice. A doctor-patient relationship is not established through the use of this blog. Readers and users take full responsibility for any information or materials they use from this blog at their own risk. The content here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not ignore or delay seeking medical advice for any health concerns. It is important to consult with licensed healthcare professionals for assistance with any health issues.

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