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Home >> Spine Problems >> Kyphosis Kyphosis While slight curvature of the spine is normal and healthy, there are some cases where it is over-pronounced and can cause both cosmetic deformity and health risks. When the spine curves inward too much in the low back, it is called lordosis. When the spine in the shoulder blade or mid spine area has too much forward curve, or too much of a hump, it is called kyphosis. This curvature will make a person look hunched over when they are trying to sit or stand erect. Several groups of the population are at risk for kyphosis for various reasons.
Treatment can include exercise, anti-inflammatory medication, bracing and rest. In rare cases of severe deformity and pain, surgery may be necessary. Surgeons at SpineAustin are on the cutting edge of less invasive technologies to treat this condition. Most often kyphosis in teenagers is detected during school screenings. Fortunately, most teens with the condition will grow out of it. Exercise can also play a role in correcting the condition.
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How to manage? Treatment can include exercise, anti-inflammatory medication, bracing and rest. In rare cases of severe deformity and pain, surgery may be necessary. Surgeons at SpineAustin are on the cutting edge of less invasive technologies to treat this condition. Those with osteoporosis: Individuals with osteoporosis may develop kyphosis due to a weakening and compression in the vertebrae. Kyphosis in these individuals is treated with aggressive anti-osteoporosis action to prevent further bone weakening.
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Who’s at risk? Congenital: Some infants are born with kyphosis, which is caused by a piece of bone between the vertebrae. Surgery may be required to correct the condition and the kyphosis will need to be monitored as the child grows and develops. Teenagers: There are two groups of teenagers that are at risk for kyphosis. Teenage girls may develop the condition due to bad posture. Stretching and strengthening exercises for hamstrings and the abdomen may help correct the condition. Teenage boys (and occasionally girls) who have a wedge-shaped disc between their vertebrae are also at risk. Usually the curvature becomes pronounced during the teenage years if this condition is present. This is called Scheuermann’s disease. Though girls can get it as well, it is more common in boys. |
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