Scoliosis Curves Double Major Curve, Lumbar Curve, Thoracic Curve, Thoracolumbar

Scoliosis Curve Types

Scoliosis curves are measured and expressed by degree. The higher the degree the more the scoliosis is said to be “severe”.

The normal thoracolumbar spine is relatively straight in the sagittal plane and has a double curve in the coronal plane. As shown below, the thoracic spine in convex posteriorly (kyphosis) and the lumbar spine is convex anteriorly (lordosis). Normally there should be no lateral curvature of the spine.

The Spine has 4 natural curves

Double Major Curve: is difficult to identify as it causes only minor visual distortion. A double major curve is made up of two curves with nearly equal angles.

Lumbar Major Curve: effects the lower part of the spine and often curves to the left.

Thoracic Curve: one of the most common scoliotic curves. It affects the upper spine and usually curves to the right side of the body.

Thoracolumbar Curve: is longer than most and extends from the upper to the lower spine. It may curve either to the right or the left.