1.14 Describe posture in terms of:

Curves of the Spine: The spine generally has 4 natural curves:

1. Cervical Curve: Inward curve at the neck.
2. Thoracic Curve: Outward curve at the upper back.
3. Lumbar Curve: Inward curve at the lower back.
4. Sacral Curve: Outward curve at the base of the spine.

Neutral Spine Alignment can be defined as a posture where the spine maintains its natural curves without excessive curvature in any region, leading to balanced alignment and reduced stress on the spine.

Potential Ranges of Motion to the Spine:

Flexion: Bending forward.
Extension: Bending backward.
Lateral Flexion: Bending to the side.
Rotation: Twisting the spine.

Postural Deviations:

Kyphosis: Excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a hunchback posture.
Lordosis: Excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine, often resulting in a swayback posture.
Scoliosis: A lateral curvature of the spine, leading to an S- or C-shaped curve.

Effects of Factors Such as Pregnancy and Obesity:
Pregnancy can cause temporary lordosis, this is due to the additional weight and shift in the center of gravity. Obesity can contribute to abnormal spinal curvatures, particularly lordosis, due to the increased load of weight bearing on the spine.