Overview

What is Kyphosis?

A normal spine looked at from the back, looks straight. However, a spine that is affected by Kyphosis displays signs of a forward curvature of the back bones (vertebrae) in the upper back region that gives an abnormally rounded or "humpback" appearance.

Kyphosis is a curvature of the spine that measures greater than 50 degrees on an X-ray. An X-ray, for instance is a form of diagnostic test. It uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to create images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film. A normal spine demonstrates 20 to 45 degrees of curvature in the upper back, or thoracic region. Kyphosis is one of the curvatures of the spine.

What are the different types of Kyphosis?

There are several types of Kyphosis. Some of the most common include:

Postural Kyphosis: It uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to create images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film. This is a flexible type of Kyphosis that often improves with exercise.
Scheuermann's Kyphosis: This is a type of Kyphosis where wedging occurs at the apex of the vertebrae. Scheuermann's Kyphosis is slightly stiffer and worse with growth. It affects 0.4 percent of the population with no preponderance of the sexes.
Congenital Kyphosis: A diagnosis of congenital Kyphosis is accepted as a statement where one, and more than one vertebra differ in shape such that that difference exists from birth. The child has an outward curve of the spine from birth. This curve may become more obvious as the child grows.

What are the symptoms of Kyphosis?

The major symptoms of Kyphosis are:

Rounded back
A curve or hump in your upper back.
Tight hamstrings are the muscles on the back of your thighs.

Extreme Kyphosis can cause:

Backing and shoulder blade pain or stiffness.
Numb, weak or tingling legs.
Extreme fatigue.
Balance problems.
Incontinence of bladder or bowel.
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

What is the cause of Kyphosis?

The cause of Kyphosis varies with the type but could be due to:

Poor posture.
Structural problems of the bones in your back.
Abnormalities in bone growth (form of the bone).
Spinal injury.
Your age.

What are the risk factors?

Kyphosis is diagnosed often between ages 13 and 16 for postural and Scheuermann's Kyphosis. This is because their bones are growing at an accelerated rate in teens. However, it can occur in anyone at any age. People do lose flexibility as they get older. And the spine might lean forward.

Alternatively, you might be born with the congenital form of Kyphosis. This happens alongside other health conditions that could have an influence on your development and growth while still in the mother's womb.

What are the complications of Kyphosis?

Complications aren't common for mild cases of Kyphosis, but they can occur when you have a severe spine curve. Complications may include:

Back pain.
Difficulty walking.
Lung compression (difficulty breathing).
Neurological issues (pinched nerves).

How do healthcare providers diagnose Kyphosis?

You or the school physician may note some signs of Kyphosis, especially when your child is screened at school. Your school may likely require your child to go to the doctor so that a diagnosis is established after a check-up by a primary care physician.

At any age, your provider will diagnose Kyphosis based on a physical examination. Your provider will want you or your child to do a bending test while doing a physical. You stand with your feet together, with your knees straight and your arms straight to your side. Then you bend forward slightly looking toward your feet. This test allows your provider to see what that curve of the spine looks like or any other problem.

What Tests are performed to diagnose Kyphosis?

A spine X-ray will help your doctor measure the degree of the curvature of your back to diagnose you. A natural curve is between 20 and 45 degrees. Your doctor will diagnose the condition if the degree is above 50.

Additionally, your doctor will perform tests to determine whether or not your symptoms are caused by any underlying condition or if the curvature of the spine is having an effect on your body. Some of the tests you may be subjected to include;

You might have to undergo a pulmonary function test to know if your lungs are working properly.

You might have to undergo an MRI to see if the curve in your spine is pressing the nerves in your spine.

What are Kyphosis treatments?

Treatment of Kyphosis varies but might involve:

Physical therapy is coupled with exercises that help build up some muscles in the abdomens and back so that individuals can be pain-free and, therefore, straighten their posture. The exercise may further stretch tight hamstrings and, therefore, power other parts of the body.
Pain medication: Anti-inflammatory medications relieve back pains.
Brace: Your physician may recommend a brace. It's often recommended for children with Scheuermann's Kyphosis who still have growth remaining. Your physician will discuss the style of the brace and the hours per day to wear it.
Surgery: Kyphosis curvature can be reduced through surgery. The most common kyphosis surgery is spinal fusion surgery. In this procedure, your surgeon aligns your vertebrae in a straighter position. They will fill up the small spaces between your vertebrae with small pieces of bone so that they fuse or come together as your vertebrae heal. This is a procedure for reducing the amount of curve.

Can I prevent Kyphosis?

You cannot prevent all types of Kyphosis. However, you can prevent postural Kyphosis by:

Maintaining good posture.
Strengthening abdominal and back muscles.
Keeping appropriate weight.
Holding bags or school books and resources in a strong backpack or roller bag.
Exercising in order to strengthen your muscles and stay limber.

What will happen to me if I have Kyphosis?

Kyphosis is an economically treatable spine condition. In some cases, you may not feel that the curve is painful and may not even be aware that you have it unless your healthcare provider notices it on an exam. Treatment is designed to halt or stop the curve from getting worse. Surgery is only required in severe cases, but most people with Kyphosis do not need surgery.

What is the prognosis for Kyphosis?

Early diagnosis of Kyphosis produces the most favorable outcome. Most patients diagnosed at this stage do not have to undergo surgery, and they can manage their condition with much less aggressive treatments. If left untreated, Kyphosis may progress. This leads to several health problems, including becoming a breathing-impaired individual.

Every individual should regularly visit a doctor over his or her lifetime after experiencing any kyphosis treatment.

When should I see a doctor?

If you or your child's spine has curved and thus altered your or their posture, seek medical help from a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider evaluates your symptoms and helps you improve your posture if necessary.

Seek emergency room care if you have trouble breathing.