All about kyphosis  causes of kyphosis symptoms of kyphosis diagnosis of kyphosis treatment for kyphosis |
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What is kyphosis?
Kyphosis is the extreme curvature of the upper back also known as a hunchback. Kyphosis is a spinal deformity that can
result from trauma, developmental problems, or degenerative disease. Kyphosis can occur at any age, although it is rare at birth. Kyphosis is a flexed curvature of the spine in a sagittal plane, as is present normally in the thoracic and sacral regions. However, the term has come to mean a pathological excessive curvature in this direction. A postural kyphosis is common. This condition is known as a 'round back' or 'drooping shoulders'. A postural kyphosis may be associated with other postural defects such as flat feet. This condition is voluntarily correctable. Adolescent kyphosis, also known as Scheuermann's disease, results from the wedging together of several consecutive vertebrae (bones of the spine). The cause of Scheuermann's disease is unknown. In adults, kyphosis can be a result of osteoporotic compression fractures (fractures caused by osteoporosis), degenerative disease (such as arthritis), or spondylolisthesis (slipping of one vertebra forward on another). Some amount of kyphosis is common and begins in adolescence, affecting boys more often than girls. The cause is unknown. The vertebrae curve forward on each other, usually in the upper back. As a result, the back develops a hump. Scoliosis also often develops in children with kyphosis (kyphoscoliosis). |
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More information on kyphosis
What is kyphosis? - Kyphosis is the extreme curvature of the upper back. Kyphosis is a spinal deformity that can result from trauma, developmental problems, or degenerative disease.
What causes kyphosis? - Kyphosis can be congenital, or due to acquired conditions that may include metabolic problems, neuromuscular conditions, osteogenesis.
What're the symptoms of kyphosis? - Kyphosis often produces no symptoms. The symptoms of kyphosis may resemble other spinal conditions or deformities.
How is kyphosis diagnosed? - Physical examination by a health care provider confirms the abnormal curvature of the spine. A spine X-ray will be done to document the severity of the curve.
What is the treatment for kyphosis? - The goal of treatment for kyphosis is to stop the progression of the curve and prevent deformity. Treatment consists of wearing a spinal brace or sleeping. |
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