Cervical spine rectification treatment should be performed with corrective exercises, performed in physiotherapy. Various treatment methods can be used, depending on the needs of the individual, such as Pilates or RPG – comprehensive postural rehabilitation, for example. The use of hot compresses and Electrical stimulation devices may be recommended in case of pain.
Rectification of physiological cervical lordosis occurs when the individual is observed on the side and it is observed that the gentle curvature that must exist between the neck and back is not present, which can occur from several factors.The physiological term means that it is ”normal”, and that it is normal to have a lordosis of the cervical spine, but when it does not have this natural curvature, we call it a correction of physiological or anatomical cervical lordosis.
- Not everyone with cervical rectification shows symptoms.
- In milder cases.
- Just look at the individual on the side to notice the absence of the lordotic curve that should be present in the neck area.
- But the signs and symptoms of cervical rectification include:.
Diagnosis may be made by the doctor or physical therapist looking at the individual sideways during a physical evaluation. Imaging tests such as X-rays and MRIs may not always be necessary, but they can be helpful in cases of symptoms, such as tingling in the head, arms, hands or fingers, or even a burning sensation, which may indicate compression.Nerve that can occur due to a herniated cervical disc.
Cervical spine rectification alone is not a serious alteration, but it can cause pain, discomfort in the neck area and may increase the risk of developing spinal osteoarthritis, so it can be treated conservatively, with physiotherapy sessions, without the need for surgery.
To treat cervical spine rectification, mobility and bodybuilding exercises, such as the Pilates method, are recommended with the help of a physiotherapist, in addition, when symptoms occur, physiotherapy sessions may be appropriate to control pain and discomfort, where resources such as hot bags, ultrasound and TENS can be used.Cervical spine manipulation techniques, such as manual cervical traction and stretching of neck and scapular belt muscles, are also indicated; however, the physical therapist may indicate another type of treatment that he or she deems more appropriate, depending on the patient’s personal assessment.
Many exercises can be indicated, depending on the needs of each, since rectification is not usually the only alteration of the spine, but also the correction of the lumbar and hypomobility of the entire column may also be present.to strengthen the cervical extender muscles, which are located at the back of the neck, and to stretch the cervical flexors, which are located on the front of the neck.Examples of Pilates exercises include:
When seated, hold your arms to the sides and tilt your neck to each side: right, left, and back, holding the stretch for about 30 seconds at a time.
The physical therapist may indicate other exercises, as needed.Each exercise can be repeated 10 times, and when movements become “easy,” you can increase exercise with towels, elastic bands, balls, or other equipment.If you feel pain when doing one of these exercises, you should stop and not exercise at home.