Flat back syndrome is a deformed spine in which thenaturally occurring S-curvature is not present.
As a result, people with flat back syndrome have a bolt-straight posture with a stiffened neck. As a spine with a rod-shaped alteration can no longer dissipate forces when lifting, there is a risk of injury or a slipped disc. A flat back can have various causes and can occur after back surgery, for example.
Below you will find further information and selected specialists for flat backs.
In its natural form, the human spine looks like an "S". In the cervical region, it is bent slightly forwards, in the thoracic vertebrae backwards (kyphosis). In the lumbar vertebrae it is bent forward again (lordosis).
This S-shape of the spine acts like a spring under load and absorbs the forces. This shape prevents damage to the intervertebral discs when lifting heavy loads. Flat backs lack these natural curves along the spine and therefore also lack their cushioning effect.
The cause of a flat back can be very different. It often starts with poor posture. This can result in a hunchback.
With a hunchback, the upper back is curved backwards @ Henrie /AdobeStock
If this happens at a young age, the further growth process of the spine does not proceed correctly. The natural S-shape of the spine cannot develop.
In addition to incorrect loading, diseases such as Scheuermann's disease can also trigger such changes. A vitamin D deficiency also appears to soften the vertebral bones (rickets), causing them to give way under daily stress.
Less frequently, but still not impossible, surgical errors can also lead to a flat back. These include errors made when placing implants in the area of the spine. Such implants are necessary, for example, in the case of vertebral fractures or to correct complicated herniated discs.
A flat back actually gives the appearance of a healthy back. Those affected walk particularly upright. However, the spine in these people lacks its natural curvature. This does not cushion the forces sufficiently. As a result, damage to the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs can occur more quickly .
The flat back therefore very often causes pain, especially when lifting loads. In addition, the risk of restricted movement increases if there is damage to the intervertebral discs or vertebral bones.
The aim of the diagnosis is to verify indications from the medical history (e.g. pain when lifting) using imaging. An X-ray is usually sufficient for this.
The next step is to diagnose the cause of the flat back. This could be rickets, Scheuermann's disease or the consequences of spinal surgery.
If an acute slipped disc is suspected, experts use magneticresonance imaging (MRI).
The most important symptom of a flat back is pain. This can increase in intensity as the disease progresses due to further damage to the vertebrae or intervertebral discs.
If movement restrictions also occur, the quality of life of those affected suffers greatly. Their mood deteriorates, leading to irritability, aggression, insomnia and in some cases even depression.
The treatment of flat back therefore consists of short-term pain treatment in combination with back-strengthening physiotherapy exercises. These strengthen balance and muscles. Further complications are therefore largely ruled out.
Constant training is important for a flat back @ Beaunitta V W/peopleimages.com /AdobeStock
In particularly severe cases of flat back, surgery is advisable to replace or repair damaged intervertebral discs. Doctors can permanently stiffen the spine in affected sections using metal plates and screws.
The prognosis for flat back depends on the cause and whether consequential damage - e.g. to the intervertebral discs - already exists.
Without consequential damage and without movement restrictions, patients have very good prospects of leading a largely undisturbed life. Physiotherapy and the targeted development of the back muscles provide additional support.
If the cause lies in previous surgical errors, the consequences of these can usually be compensated for just as easily. There are numerous treatment options available to help improve the symptoms and the patient's quality of life.
GPs and orthopaedists are the first port of call for those affected. Depending on the treatment, other specialist disciplines may also be involved, such as surgeons or neurologists.
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