Child with Sway Back and Back Pain Helped Through Chiropractic

The Journal of Physical Therapy Science published the results of a case study on September 5, 2022, that documented the improvement of lower back pain and swayback in a young girl who underwent specific forms of chiropractic care.

The term "sway back" is a commonly used term for an increase in the inward curvature in the lower spine. Other terms used are "lordosis", or "hyperlordosis", as used in this study, meaning a significant increase in the curvature of the lumbar spine. In many cases, this abnormal increase in lumbar curvature is associated with lower back pain as well as hip, leg, knee or ankle pains.

In their study introduction, the authors explain this issue as it affects children. "The prevalence of low back pain (LBP) in children is relatively common and some studies have shown it to be increasing. Although the risk factors of LBP in childhood are varied, children are often unaware of their posture while performing common tasks such as sitting and wearing a schoolbag which can be a direct cause of back strain. Regardless of causes of childhood LBP, without proper intervention as a child, there is a possibility that the LBP will progress and may increase in severity as the child ages."

This study documents the case of an 11-year-old girl who was suffering with mid-lower back pain, as well as sporadic pain in both her hips, knees, and ankles. Additionally, it was reported that the girl was experiencing weakness in both her legs.

An examination and x-rays revealed a definitive increase in the forward curve of the lower back therefore being diagnosed as hyperlordosis. With the presence of spinal abnormalities, and with the consent of the girl’s parents, specific forms of chiropractic procedures were started on the girl on a regular basis consisting of multiple visits per week.

Periotic re-evaluations were performed as well as follow-up spinal x-rays to evaluate the progress. As care continued, the study reports that there was a measurable improvement in the curvature in the lower back. Additionally, the study noted that the girl also showed improvement in her pain symptoms. The authors noted a direct correlation between the improvement in the girl’s lordosis and her decrease in symptoms which eventually were completely gone.

In their conclusion, the study authors summed up their findings by stating, "Lumbar hyperlordosis can be reduced in pediatric patients presenting with hyperlordosis and associated symptomatology."