Before we can talk about what’s going on with your spine, it helps to know what “normal” looks like. That’s the first thing your X-ray report compares you to. Here’s what a normal spine X-ray shows.
From the front: straight up and down
From the front, your skull, rib cage and pelvis should stack on one vertical line, and your spine should run straight up and down with gravity. If it curves side to side, that’s scoliosis, and we measure it. See our scoliosis page.
From the side: four natural curves
From the side, a healthy spine has four curves that work like a spring to absorb load:
- Neck (cervical lordosis): curves forward
- Mid-back (thoracic kyphosis): curves backward
- Low back (lumbar lordosis): curves forward
- Sacrum and tailbone: curves backward
Your skull, rib cage and pelvis should also stack over your ankles. When your head drifts forward or your rib cage shifts back, the curves change to compensate, and that’s where extra wear tends to show up.
How we compare you to normal
We measure each curve on your X-rays and chart it against normal. For loss of curve, we use a simple scale: mild is up to 25%, moderate is 25 to 50%, and severe is more than 50%. Then we re-measure along the way so you can see the change. Learn more about our digital X-ray and PostureRay reports and posture.
Want to know exactly where your spine stands? Your first visit includes a full exam, and X-rays when your exam shows a reason for them. Schedule your first visit or call (941) 259-2229.
About Dr. Alex Lee
Dr. Alex is a Life Chiropractic College West graduate and former D1 baseball player who owns Circadian Chiropractic & Sport in Sarasota, Florida. He helps families and athletes in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch.
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