What is kyphosis?
The word “kyphosis” describes a type of curve in the spine. A kyphotic curve is normally present in the thoracic spine (the part of the spine in the chest area). A kyphotic curve looks like the letter “C” with the opening of the C pointing towards the front. Though the thoracic spine is supposed to be curved, if the curve in a person’s spine is more than 40-45 degrees, it is considered abnormal or a spinal deformity which is called hyperkyphosis.
Kyphosis can occur at any age but is common during adolescence. Most of the adolescent kyphosis are mild. A teen with kyphosis should be closely monitored by a doctor until they have stopped growing.
Kyphosis can vary in severity. In general, the greater the curve, the more serious the condition. Milder curves may cause mild back pain or no symptoms at all. More severe curves can cause significant spinal deformity and result in a visible hump on the patient's back.
What causes kyphosis?
Poor posture
- Higher spinal loads and trunk muscle force in an upright stance
- Protruding head positions and loss of shoulder range induced by slouched sitting; ill- fitting school desks; overloaded backs, and backpacks.
Osteoporosis (most common cause)
Congenital (conditions from birth)
Traumatic (trauma or injury to the spine)
Family history of spine problems (Scheuermann's kyphosis)
Neuromuscular conditions (cerebral palsy, spina bifida)
Metabolic conditions (diabetes)
Spinal infections (osteomyelitis)
“Iatrogenic factors” (from the effects of medical treatment or surgery. E.g. : cancer and cancer treatment)
Syndromes (e.g.: Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome)
Scheuermann’s disease
Types of kyphosis
There are several types of kyphosis. The three that most commonly seen are,
- Postural kyphosis
- Scheuermann’s kyphosis
- Congenital kyphosis
Postural kyphosis
Most common type.
Clinically noticed as poor posture or slouching.
More common in girls than boys.
Does not progress.
Does not associated with severe structural abnormalities of the spine.
Scheuermann’s kyphosis
Become apparent during teen years.
Caused by a structural abnormality in the spine.
More common in boys than girls.
Stops progressing once growing is complete.
Congenital kyphosis
Present in birth.
Occurs when the spinal column fails to develop normally while the baby is in utero.
The sings of kyphosis
The signs and symptoms of kyphosis vary, depending upon the cause and severity of the curve. These may include,
Rounded shoulders
A visible hump on the back
Upper back appears higher than normal when bending forward
Head always or almost always bent forward.
The difference in the height or position of the shoulders or shoulder blades
Mild back pain
Fatigue
Spine stiffness
Tight hamstrings (the muscles in the back of the thigh)
Rarely, over time, may progressive curves be led to
Weakness, numbness, or tingling of the legs.
Loss of sensation.
Shortness of breath or other breathing difficulties.
Limited physical functioning.
Digestive problems.
Body image problems.
Treatments
The goal of the treatment is to stop the progression of the curve and prevent deformity.
According to scientific studies, the conservative treatment (nonsurgical) for patients with thoracic kyphosis is regarded as being effective.
Chamika Hansamalee
References
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