The dorsal or thoracic spine is comprised of twelve vertebrae and is the longest section of the spinal cord.

Lordosis, which is a curvature of the spinal column in both the dorsal and the cervical section, can quite frequently be blamed on poor posture. Lordosis is a curvature with a convexity forwards and an exaggeration of a normal curve towards the lumbar part of the spine. This is often referred to as a ‘hollow back’. On the other hand a ‘kyphosos’ may develop, which is a backward convexity and the older term for this condition was ‘hump-back’.

Another form of lateral curvature is scoliosis. This condition often reveals itself in that the patient’s spine seems to be shaped like a question mark.

In all conditions, physical exercise and acupuncture treatment is beneficial, as well as correct dietary management to strengthen the vertebrae. Chronic pain and stress on the neck and back should not be ignored. If we look at our lifestyle, most of us will be able to adapt, in some way or another, in order to minimise or at least reduce the outcome of some of the excessive demands we place on our bodies.