Flatback Syndrome

Flatback Syndrome services offered in Worthington and Newark, OH

Flatback syndrome changes the normal curvature of the lower spine and can make standing and walking increasingly uncomfortable. At Interventional Pain Center in Worthington and Newark, Ohio, Sachida Manocha, MD, evaluates pain associated with spinal disorders, including flatback syndrome, and provides nonsurgical pain management when appropriate. Call Interventional Pain Center or schedule an appointment online for an expert flatback syndrome evaluation.

Flatback Syndrome Q & A

What happens to the spine with flatback syndrome?

A healthy lumbar spine has an inward curve called lumbar lordosis. Flatback syndrome develops when you lose too much of this natural curve, causing the upper body to shift forward in relation to the pelvis.

This type of abnormal front-to-back alignment is known as sagittal imbalance. People may initially compensate by bending their knees, rotating their pelvis, or extending other areas of the spine to remain upright.

These adjustments place additional demands on muscles and joints and become increasingly difficult to maintain.

What symptoms can flatback syndrome cause?

One of the most recognizable symptoms of flatback syndrome is difficulty standing completely upright. You may feel as though your body pitches forward, especially after standing or walking for some time.

Other symptoms include:

Persistent lower back pain
Muscle fatigue
Stooped or forward-leaning posture
Increasing discomfort when walking

You may also develop leg pain, numbness, and/or weakness if flatback syndrome affects your spinal nerves.

Why does flatback syndrome develop?

Flatback syndrome has several possible causes. A common one is degenerative changes to spinal discs and joints that gradually alter spinal alignment. Sagittal imbalance caused by degenerative spinal changes causes back pain, neurological symptoms, and reduced physical function.

Some cases develop after previous spine surgery, particularly when fusion leaves insufficient lumbar lordosis. Modern research continues to examine this postsurgical, or iatrogenic, form of flatback syndrome.

Other spinal conditions can also contribute to sagittal imbalance. When evaluating the source of your pain, Dr. Manocha reviews your symptoms, medical history, previous spinal procedures, and diagnostic imaging to determine the cause.

How is flatback syndrome treated?

Flatback syndrome treatment depends on the degree of deformity and the symptoms it produces. Nonsurgical management may include appropriate exercise or physical therapy, medication, and strategies for controlling associated back, joint, or nerve pain.

As a pain management specialist, Dr. Manocha can determine whether interventional treatments may help address particular sources of pain associated with the condition. However, pain procedures don’t correct the underlying spinal alignment. Possible options include:

Corticosteroid injections
Nerve blocks
Radiofrequency ablation
Spinal cord stimulation

Severe fixed deformity may require evaluation by a spine surgeon. Corrective surgery can restore spinal balance and lumbar lordosis, particularly when previous fusion has contributed to the deformity.

For persistent back pain or other symptoms associated with flatback syndrome, contact Interventional Pain Center to schedule an appointment or request one online today.