What is Kyphosis?
Kyphosis is the medical term for abnormal curvature of the back, sometimes referred to as a hunchback. With kyphosis, the spinal column bends more than normal, creating a large arc in the spine, often in the mid-back.
What Causes Kyphosis?
There are three types of kyphosis in adults:
- Post-Traumatic Kyphosis: Post-traumatic kyphosis is the result of trauma to the spine. It’s often caused by a fracture of one or more vertebrae in the spine that allows the spinal column to bend more than normal. These fractures may be from direct trauma, such as a fall or car accident, or a result of an osteoporotic fracture. In some cases, fractures can lead to ligament damage that causes kyphosis.
- Age-Associated Kyphosis: Age-associated kyphosis develops over time as a result of conditions related to aging, like osteoporosis, muscle weakness, degenerative disc disease, and spine fractures. Prolonged poor posture over many years can also lead to kyphosis.
- Scheuermann's Kyphosis: Scheuermann's disease is a condition that typically develops in the teen years but can progress to kyphosis in adulthood. It occurs when the back edge of the vertebrae grow more than the front edge, creating a wedge shape. It’s most commonly seen in males, though it can happen to anyone.
To determine the cause of kyphosis, your provider examines your spine and takes X-rays to identify any areas of damage to your spine or bony abnormalities that you were born with or that developed over time.
When Does Kyphosis Require Treatment?
While kyphosis is common and often doesn’t cause any medical concerns, if you’re unhappy with your posture or experiencing the following symptoms, The Metropolitan Neurosurgery Group can help.
- Spinal muscle fatigue
- Chronic swelling
- Progressive spinal degeneration
- Pinched nerves
- Problems with sitting and balance
- Skin alterations, like sores or rashes
Your provider evaluates your spine for degeneration and the risk of progression of your kyphosis. In severe cases, it can make daily tasks difficult and may make sitting, sleeping, or walking difficult.
How is Kyphosis Treated?
Based on the cause and severity of your kyphosis, your provider may recommend conservative therapies to relieve your discomfort — like a brace for young patients who are still growing or physical therapy — or an interventional surgical procedure to slow or stop the progression of moderate to severe kyphosis. They may also give you anti-inflammatory and osteoporosis medications when appropriate.
Set up a consultation to discuss your kyphosis and spinal health now by calling The Metropolitan Neurosurgery Group.
