The cervical spine, or neck portion of the backbone, has a naturally C-shaped curve. This curve supports the head and facilitates pain-free movement of the neck. This gentle curve assists in maintaining balance and posture, and overall spinal health.

When this gentle curve loses its C shape and becomes straight, this is referred to as the straightening of the cervical spine. While this is not always critical, in certain situations, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and other chronic conditions. In this article, we discuss its causes, symptoms, problems, and possible remedies.

What Is Straightening of the Cervical Spine

To address this situation, you must first understand the straightening of the spine. This condition leads to the changing of the natural curve of the neck, and over time, it affects the posture, the balance, and the overall health of the spine.

Definition of Cervical Straightening

Cervical straightening refers to the "loss of cervical lordosis," in other words, the neck loses its natural forward curve, and a C-shape is replaced with a back curve or a straight neck. This can occur due to poor posture or result from an injury.

When the natural cervical spine curve is lost, vertebrae misalignment occurs, putting additional strain on the muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Over time, this strain can produce discomfort and limitation on movement, among other symptoms.

Normal Cervical Spine Curve and Its Role

A healthy cervical spine has a forward curve that balances the average weight of the head, 10 to 12 pounds, over the shoulders. The curve acts as a spring, absorbing shock and evenly distributing pressure.

When this curve is lost and the straight cervical spine is developed, equilibrium is lost. It overworks the border muscles to maintain integrity, increases joint degeneration, and causes flexion restriction. It may also decrease blood and nerve function in the neck and upper body.

Common Causes of Cervical Straightening

It is very important to identify the most common cervical straightening causes in defining measures for prevention and treatment.

Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle

Poor posture is arguably one of the most prevalent causes of straightening of the cervical spine. This condition can be caused by prolonged periods of time in the working environment with no desk ergonomics, being hunched over, or spending time on electronic devices, and looking down. Your neck muscles will also eventually adapt to this position, pulling the spine out of its natural curve.

Muscle Imbalance and Spasms

When the neck muscles become weak or tight and are no longer balanced, the muscles can no longer hold or support the cervical spine upright. Muscle spasms after an injury are one of the many causes of a spine's misalignment, and chronic tension caused by stress directly pulling the spine out of alignment will also affect the posture.

Trauma or Injury

Changes in the cervical curve can occur from whiplash and other related trauma. This may occur with a protective tightening of the muscles, leading to a straightened spine in response to trauma, temporarily or permanently.

Degenerative Changes and Aging

With every passing year, the discs located between the vertebrae lose their water and elasticity. This age-associated wear and tear can lead to a flattening of the cervical curve as well as reduce the cervical spine range of movement.

Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Straightening

Each case of cervical straightening may encompass varying signs and symptoms. In fact, some individuals may show no signs at all, and for others, the complications may include:

• Chronic pain and stiffness around the neck.

• Inability to turn or tilt the neck freely. 

• Head pain, particularly at the occipital region, and neck region pain. 

• Pain and discomfort in the shoulders and upper back.

• Arm and hand symptoms like numbness or tingling.

• Head stalks in a forward position, along with drooping shoulders.

Take notice of the above symptoms and seek professional help. Cervical straightening may result in complications of the nerves or muscles.

When to Seek Medical Help?

While poor posture and other lifestyle factors may be the cause of pain in some cases, there are other reasons for pain that will require the attention of a doctor. You should see a doctor if:

• For several weeks, the pain has not gone away.

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms.

• Headaches become frequent and severe.

• Your balance or coordination is affected.

Most conditions may be effectively treated or managed when diagnosed early. A doctor may begin the process by ordering X-rays or MRIs to view your cervical spine and curves to seek possible other conditions.

Safe and Effective Treatments for Cervical Straightening

The treatment for cervical straightening relies on the cause and severity of the condition. The majority of individuals get better with conservative treatment that emphasizes posture correction, muscular strengthening, and spinal alignment.

Posture Correction and Ergonomic Adjustments

Posture correction is vital to avoiding the further development of cervical straightening. Poor sitting posture increases neck strain, leading to the flattening of its natural curve. Below are the best 5 posture correction ergonomic chairs which reduce neck strain and help to prevent cervical straightening during prolonged periods of sitting.

1.      OdinLake O2 (Ergo MAX 747)

The OdinLake O2 (Ergo MAX 747) is an ergonomic chair that is designed to maintain spinal health and assist in the prevention of cervical straightening. The chair has a three-section adjustable backrest, dynamic lumbar support, 4D adjustable armrests, and a FlexBreath™ Mesh seat that promotes seat breathability.

The chair is easily adjustable due to the WireControl™ mechanism and has a tilt range of 90° to 135°. The OdinLake O2 has an aluminum frame, a Class 4 gas cylinder, quiet wheels, and is able to support 350 lbs, making it durable and comfortable for extended use.

2.      OdinLake O3 (Ergo BUTTERFLY 753)

The OdinLake O3 (Ergo BUTTERFLY 753) is a premium ergonomic chair that helps with spinal alignment while reducing strain to prevent cervical straightening. Its backrest is split butterfly style with lumbar support that adapts to the spine’s curves.

It has 3D adjustable armrests, a 2D headrest, and an adjustable WireControl™ embedded armrest system. It has a 90° to 135° tilt range, an optional footrest, and FlexBreath™ mesh material to support you all day. This chair is durable with a weight capacity of 350 lbs.

3.      X3 ATR Management Office Chair

The X3 ATR Management Office Chair is made for professionals looking for ultimate support and comfort during prolonged hours at work. Its Advanced Tensile Recovery (A.T.R.) fabric will provide breathability, durability, and resistance to water and stains.

With Dynamic Variable Lumbar (DVL)® support, 4D adjustable armrests, and SciFloat Infinite Recline, it promotes movement, correct posture, and reliance to prevent cervical straightening.

4.      Steelcase Gesture Chair

The Steelcase Gesture Chair helps to support your posture with preventive features against cervical straightening during long hours of work. Its 3D LiveBack® technology supports your spine by adapting to your natural movements, and the 360° adjustable arms reduce neck strain.

The Gesture Chair is adjustable to multiple dimensions (height 47"–57", depth 21"–23.625", seat height 16"–21"), allowing a truly customized ergonomic fit. BIFMA Level 3 certified, the chair was designed for safety, durability, and lifetime reliability.

5.      Autonomous ErgoChair Ultra 2

The Autonomous Ergonomic Chair Ultra 2 strengthens posture and relieves the pain due to cervical straightening. Advanced backrests with flexible ribs and breathable Air Mesh keep your spine aligned and active.

The chair provides comfort and adjustable features with a 4-layer seat and a strong ergonomic build, and will help improve your posture and relieve shoulder and neck pain throughout the day.

Investing in an ergonomic setup is not just about comfort. It is a recognition of the value of your spine and a necessary preventative measure.

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Next to the posture correction and ergonomic adjustments, physical therapy can be very beneficial. Poor alignment and balance can be improved with stretches and strengthening exercises for the neck. Tension can be released too with gentle movements, for example, neck rotations, shoulder rolls, and chin tucks.

Chiropractic and Manual Therapy

To rectify the curvature of the spine, chiropractors are qualified to administer mild adjustments. In addition to this, the cervical region receives enhanced blood flow, and tension within the musculature is alleviated through the application of manual therapy methods, which consist of massage and mobilization. This increases the restoration of the cervical spine.

Which one is better suited for you?

Lifestyle and Daily Habits

Cervical spine health is largely determined by daily habits, so here are some suggestions to preserve your cervical spine health:

•  Position your screen at eye level to prevent forward head posture.

• Stand up frequently from prolonged sitting to stretch and move.

•  Use a pillow that provides support and maintains the cervical spine's natural curvature.

• Engage in physical exercise, with an emphasis on activities that promote posture and core strength.

The effects of these habits on the health of your spine are considerable, especially over an extended period.

Conclusion

More people than you might think experience cervical spine straightening. While often it’s not dangerous, it can lead to chronic pain, decreased mobility, and nerve pain if it’s not addressed. The bright side is that with good posture, ergonomic aids, and timely action, the condition can usually be managed and even reversed in many cases.

Chairs that support good posture, like the ergonomic OdinLake O2 or OdinLake O3, are good investments and the first step in achieving your desired result. Daily movement therapy, posture, and these chairs will help maintain the health of your cervical spine and your life in turn.

FAQs

Is cervical straightening serious?

It depends on the condition, mild straightening may pose the least risk, whereas more serious cases can lead to nerve entrapment, pain, and eventually result in severe spinal complications.

How to cure the straightening of the cervical spine?

The curing process entails the adoption of appropriate posture, ergonomic support, physiotherapy, and general lifestyle adjustments. In certain cases, chiropractic care or medical treatment may be suggested.

Is cervical spine adjustment safe?

Cervical spine adjustments performed by licensed chiropractors or other qualified health care practitioners are safe and effective for realigning the spine.

What are the risks of cervical spine manipulation?

Risks are rare, but soreness and, in extremely rare cases, nerve damage are possible. Make sure to seek treatment from a reputable provider.

Can straightening of the cervical spine cause dizziness?

Cervical straightening will cause dizziness in some cases. If blood flow or nerves are restricted in the neck, dizziness and balance issues will occur.