New research published in the latest issue of Nature (call number Q1.N3) finds that women have stronger, more flexible lower backs than men.
The study reports that the female lumbar curve spans three, well-connected vertebrae. The male lumbar curve, on the other hand, spans only two vertebrae, which are not as securely linked.
image source: Nature
Researchers hypothesize that the female spine has evolved to accommodate the additional abdominal load of pregnancy that women may experience in their lifetimes. With a stronger, more flexible lower spine, pregnant women are better able to lean back and balance their frontal weight.
Links:
Nature (article abstract and link to full-text)
New York Times coverage
Comments (1)
I hope the next step is to eliminate back pain during pregnancy.
Posted by pregnant woman | February 19, 2008 11:21 AM
Posted on February 19, 2008 11:21