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Weak abdominal muscles allow the pelvis to tilt forward, resulting in forward curvature in the lumbar region and a backward curvature in the thoracic region. This exaggerated curvature may aggravate an existing condition or be the initial cause of a lower back problem. When abdominal muscles are strong, the exaggerated curvature and resulting strain is prevented. Done properly, exercises such as sit-ups, stomach crunches, and leg lifts can strengthen abdominal muscles enough to prevent many posture-related problems.
In addition to weakness in the musculature surrounding the abdomen and spine, there are two common spinal defects which can lead to poor posture: spondylolithesis and scoliosis.
Spondylolithesis is a spontaneous forward or backward displacement or a lumbar vertebra. It occurs when a vertebra consists of soft, fibrous tissue instead of normal bone. As a result, the arch is weaker than normal and more likely to be deformed or damaged under stress. This defect may be congenital or may have developed as a result of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Scoliosis, more commonly called “curvature of the spine”, is a deformity in which the spine is bent to one side. As the condition progresses, the vertebrae curve left or right, crowding together the ribs on that side of the body and pulling ribs apart on the opposite side. Treatment, when appropriate, may consist of exercise, bracing and/or surgery to fuse together certain vertebrae.
