Expert: Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP - 6/18/2008

Question
I have done some reading of your answers to others about reverse curves. Of course, I have been told I have a significant reverse curve in my neck.  I had gone to a chiropractor for pain between my scapulae that occurs on and off switching sides at times where I have a scoliosis.  I do not have migraines or any regular neck pain.  Mostly I have problems that occur as spasms or tightness between my scapulae. She felt this pain was due to my reverse curve.  My PT says I curve in anteriorly more than most people between my scapulae and I also curve out more (nickname dinosaur back)at the thorasic vertebrae below my scapule.  She felt the reverse neck curve might just be compensatory.  The scoliosis is cervical/thoracis "S" curve with the top curve to the right.
My question is can reverse curves be compensatory for greater than normal anterior and posterior curves elsewhere in the spine.  Can reverse curves be improved with just exercises or do you need adjustments done at the same time.  And why do chiropractors seem to be interested in reverse curves while Drs and PTs are not.  Thanks alot.

Answer
Michele,

Remember, there's no good evidence that any sort of spine manipulation will improve an cervical reversed curve, or any structural curve in your back for that matter.  If you are well into your adult years, the curvature to your back is what you're stuck with.  There are minor compensations to global posture that, in theory, are affected by exercises.  Google:  "Upper and Lower Crossed Syndrome", and note how tight or weak muscles are associated with alterations in pelvic tilt or shoulder girdle posture, and also how it references forward head carry.   The forward carry of your head off of your shoulders is not necessarily dependent on your neck curve.  MD's and PT's are not interested in reverse curves for various reasons, likely because it is not a topic discussed in their schooling, and also because there is no hard evidence that a reverse curve is a bad medical condition.

'Hope this helps.

Dr. G