The natural curves and small postural imbalances in each person’s spine become problematic when these curves become exaggerated, and rigidify into unbalanced positions, due to inherited factors, accidents, or poor posture over a long time.

A kyphosis is a pronounced curve in the upper spine (‘a hunchback’).
A lordosis (a ‘swayback’) is a curve in the lower back. Cervical lordosis is an excessive curve in the neck.
A scoliosis is a pronounced lateral deviation (curve).