How to correct reversed cervical lordosis

In general, reverse cervical curvature refers to the reversal of the normal physiological curve of the cervical spine, characterized by a posterior convexity along the cervical spine, representing an abnormal spinal morphology. This condition may be caused by factors such as aging, prolonged poor posture, excessive cervical strain, neck muscle imbalance, or cervical disc herniation. Correction can be achieved under medical guidance through conservative treatments including physical therapy, acupuncture, and medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Aging

With advancing age, degenerative changes occur in the cervical spine and surrounding soft tissues, leading to narrowing of the intervertebral spaces and reduced disc height. These changes alter the natural cervical lordosis, resulting in reverse curvature. Regular neck muscle exercises—such as flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation—are recommended to enhance cervical stability.

2. Prolonged Poor Posture

Spending long periods looking down at mobile phones or computers, or working at a desk with poor ergonomics, keeps the cervical spine in a forward-flexed position. This causes chronic tension in the posterior neck muscles and ligaments, while anterior structures become relatively lax, eventually leading to reverse cervical curvature. It is advised to correct sitting and standing postures, maintaining a neutral head and neck alignment. Regular breaks and neck stretching exercises can help relieve muscle tension.

3. Excessive Cervical Strain

Chronic overuse of the cervical spine—such as from heavy physical labor or frequent head turning—can lead to cumulative microtrauma and chronic strain on the cervical spine and surrounding tissues, altering its natural curvature and causing reverse lordosis. Reducing excessive cervical activity, ensuring adequate rest, and performing regular neck stretches are important for relieving muscle tension.

4. Neck Muscle Imbalance

Muscle imbalance in the neck is often due to genetic factors or external injuries, which may impair the ability to adequately support the weight of the head, increasing forward flexion and gradually leading to reverse curvature. Symptoms such as neck discomfort and pain may also occur. Under the guidance of a qualified physician, acupuncture at specific points—including Dazhui (GV14), Tianzhu (BL10), Houxi (SI3), and Jiaji (EX-B2)—may be performed to improve local blood circulation, reduce muscle tension, and correct the abnormal curvature.

5. Cervical Disc Herniation

Cervical disc herniation is commonly caused by aging or prolonged heavy physical labor. It may result in narrowed intervertebral spaces and decreased cervical stability, contributing to reverse curvature. Typical symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. Patients should follow medical advice and may be prescribed medications such as ibuprofen tablets, aspirin powder, or eperisone hydrochloride tablets for symptom relief.

In daily life, it is important to maintain proper sitting and standing posture, strengthen neck muscle exercises, and undergo regular cervical spine check-ups to prevent the development of reverse cervical curvature.