What is the medical term for an abnormal curvature of the spine?

The medical term for an abnormal curvature of the spine is known as scoliosis. This condition involves a lateral, or sideways, curvature of the spine that can occur in an "S" or "C" shape rather than a straight line. Scoliosis can develop in childhood or adolescence and may require monitoring or treatment depending on its severity.

Other terms that might come up in this context include kyphosis, which refers to an excessive outward curvature of the spine, typically in the thoracic region, leading to a hunchback appearance, and lordosis, which describes an abnormal anterior curvature of the lumbar spine, often referred to as a swayback. Osteoporosis, while related to bone density and strength, is not a curvature of the spine but rather a condition that weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures. Understanding these distinctions is critical in medical terminology and diagnosis.