Kyphosis

Our spine has a natural S-curve - two inward curves (in the neck and lower back) and one outward curve (in the upper back). Kyphosis happens when the spine curves outward more than normal. This makes the upper back, around the thoracic region, bend forward. The thoracic region is the section of the spine between the neck and ribs. This type of curve can give a hunched or slouched appearance. Some people know it as “hunchback” or “roundback.” Kyphosis often doesn’t lead to serious health concerns or demand medical care. Still, it might make you uncomfortable with your appearance. In extreme situations, kyphosis could lead to pain or trouble with breathing. Surgery may be needed when kyphosis becomes severe.

Symptoms People with kyphosis may notice these main signs:

• Shoulders that appear rounded
• A visible curve or hump forms in the upper back
• Stiffness in the hamstrings located behind the thighs

More serious cases of kyphosis might bring additional symptoms:

• Back stiffness or pain near your shoulder blades
• Tingling, weakness, or numbness in your legs
• Feeling very tired
• Trouble keeping your balance
• Losing control of your bladder or bowels
• Breathing problems like shortness of breath

What causes Kyphosis? The reasons for kyphosis depend on the type and may include:

• Slouching or bad posture
• Problems with how the bones in your spine are shaped
• Abnormal bone development
• Injuries to the spine
• Getting older

What are the factors that increase the risk of Kyphosis? Doctors often diagnose postural and Scheuermann's kyphosis in teenagers between 13 and 16. This happens since bones grow during this age. However, kyphosis can occur at any stage of life. As people get older, the vertebrae become less flexible, and the spine might start to lean forward. Some individuals are born with a congenital type of kyphosis. This can happen along with other health issues that affect how the body grows and develops before birth.

How do doctors Diagnose Kyphosis?

• Physical exam: Doctors might ask you to do what’s called a bending test. This allows the doctor to spot any unusual curves in the spine or other spinal issues.
• Spine X-ray to measure the curve of your spine and figure out if there's an issue

Your doctor might also conduct tests to see if your symptoms stem from another condition or if the spinal curve has an effect on other parts of your body. These tests can include:

• A pulmonary function test to check how well your lungs work.
• An MRI to see if the curve puts pressure on the spinal nerves.

How do doctors treat Kyphosis? Kyphosis treatment changes depending on the situation, but it might involve:

• Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises can help build the back and abdominal muscles to ease pain and support better posture. Stretching tight hamstrings through these activities can also make other parts of your body stronger.
• Pain medication: Medications that reduce inflammation can help ease back pain.
• Back brace: Your doctor might suggest using a brace for kids still growing with Scheuermann’s kyphosis. They will explain which brace to use and how long each day you should wear it.
• Surgery: Surgery helps straighten the spine by reducing its curve. Spinal fusion surgery is the most performed procedure to fix kyphosis. In this operation, the surgeon adjusts your vertebrae to make them straighter. They connect the vertebrae by placing small pieces of bone between them. While healing, the bones join together or fuse. This process lessens how severe the curve is.

How can I prevent Kyphosis? Not all forms of kyphosis can be avoided. However, you can take actions to avoid postural kyphosis like:

• Keeping a straight posture
• Building strength in your abdominal and back muscles
• Staying at a healthy weight
• Using a well-built backpack or a rolling bag to carry books and supplies
• Doing exercises to keep your muscles strong and flexible