Vertebral Column and Curvature

When viewed from the front (anterior view), a normal vertebral column should appear relatively straight.

When viewed from the side (lateral view), the vertebral column exhibits natural curves.
These curves include:
- Cervical Curve:
  - Located in the neck region, involving the seven cervical vertebrae.
  - Develops postnatally, around the third month of life.
  - Formation is due to lifting the head, which distributes head weight onto the vertebral column.
- Thoracic Curve:
  - Located in the mid-back region, involving the 12 thoracic vertebrae.
  - Present from birth.
- Lumbar Curve:
  - Located in the lower back, involving the five lumbar vertebrae.
  - Develops approximately nine months after birth, coinciding with the start of upright walking.
- Sacral (Sacrococcygeal) Curve:
  - Found at the base of the vertebral column, involving the fused sacrum and coccyx.

Scoliosis:
- Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
- From an anterior or posterior view, the spine appears curved rather than straight.
- Can cause uneven shoulder or hip height.
- Women have a slightly higher risk.
- Often diagnosed during adolescence.
- Screening is performed in US public schools, involving visual inspection of the bare back.
Kyphosis:
- Exaggerated thoracic curvature.
- Commonly referred to as "hunchback."
Lordosis:
- Exaggerated lumbar curvature.
- Posture appears as if the person is sticking their butt out.
- Risk factors in adults include:
  - Large belly (e.g., "beer belly" in men).
  - Pregnancy in women, due to weight distribution in the abdomen.