Kyphosis

Kyphosis Overview

What is kyphosis?

Kyphosis is the word used to describe an excessive rounding (from back to front) of the upper spine in the thoracic area, which is the middle section of the spine located between the base of your neck and the bottom of your ribs. This rounding causes hunched posture and can have multiple causes.  Depending on the cause, this may be referred to as postural kyphosis, Scheuermann’s kyphosis or congenital kyphosis.

Who gets it and when? 

Congenital kyphosis is present at birth and often noticed in childhood or adolescence. Postural kyphosis is more often seen in women. Scheuermann’s kyphosis is seen equally in men and women, usually appearing in adolescence.

Kyphosis Causes

What are the causes and risk factors of kyphosis?

Kyphosis of the thoracic spine will occur for a number of reasons, including fractured vertebrae leading to spinal instability, worsening osteoporosis which we can weaken the vertebral bodies, degenerative discs, poor posture and deconditioning.   Lung disease from cigarette use can lead to kyphosis.

Kyphosis Symptoms

Symptoms experienced by people with kyphosis include: 

• Curvature of the upper spine 
• Back pain and stiffness 
• In severe cases people could have worsening respiratory issues as well as balance problems since the center gravity when standing is pushed forward beyond one’s ability to compensate 

Kyphosis Diagnosis

How is kyphosis diagnosed?  

Reaching a diagnosis of kyphosis generally involves a medical history, physical exam and diagnostic imaging that may include a standing X-ray of the whole spinal column, MRI and/or CT. 

Kyphosis Treatment

How is kyphosis treated?  

There are different treatments, and they may vary by the cause. But, they may include:

Medical  
Medications used to relieve symptoms include over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), prescription-level anti-inflammatories/NSAIDs, and muscle relaxers. Vitamin D in medicines to address low bone density may also be recommended. 

Physical Therapy 
Physical therapy can improve posture and increase the strength and flexibility of muscles around the affected area, as well as hamstrings that can be impacted by the hunched posture. Back braces are used in some scenarios, most often for children with Scheuermann’s kyphosis.  

Surgical 
A spinal fusion surgery can permanently align impacted vertebrae and reduce curvature.